Debt collectors abusive and harassing telephone calls are on the rise.

According to the FTC, consumer complaints about debt collection abuse were up significantly in 2007(PDF link). This is hardly surprising, as debt has been plentiful and cheap lately. Complaints will almost certainly go up in 2008, since credit card borrowing is way up along with credit charge-offs.

If you are getting phone calls from a debt collector, you need to track the calls carefully. In Pennsylvania, you are legally not allowed to record a telephone call without permission of all parties on the telephone call.  However, it is very important that you keep good handwritten notes!