FTC Data Spotlight Highlights Continued Rise in Social Media Scam Losses

A recent Data Spotlight published by the Federal Trade Commission highlights the growing role social media plays in consumer fraud schemes and the significant financial losses tied to scams originating on these platforms.  According to the FTC’s Consumer Sentinel Network data, nearly 30% of consumers who reported losing money to scams in 2025 said the fraud began on social media. Reported losses tied to those scams reached approximately $2.1 billion, exceeding losses connected to any other form of contact. The FTC noted that […]

New York City DCWP to Hold Public Hearing on Debt Collection Rule Amendments 

The New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to its debt collection penalty schedule on June 1. The hearing will focus on updates to penalties for violations under the city’s debt collection rules.  The adopted debt collection rules are scheduled to take effect Sept. 1, 2026, and include new and revised compliance requirements for debt collectors.  According to the […]

FCC Opens Public Comment on Proposed Rules Targeting Offshore Call Centers

The Federal Communications Commission has opened a public comment period on a proposed rule aimed at limiting the use of foreign call centers and strengthening standards for companies that continue to operate offshore customer service operations.  The proposal, published in the Federal Register, outlines multiple actions intended to address activity at offshore call centers, with a focus on improving customer service communications and protecting consumers’ sensitive personal information. Federal Register Notice and […]

FTC Targets Alleged Student Loan Scam in $8.8 Million Case

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has secured a temporary restraining order against California-based NERD Solutions Inc., which also operated under the name ED REF. The agency alleges the company defrauded student loan borrowers out of more than $8.8 million.  This case represents a significant enforcement action under the FTC’s recently finalized Government and Business Impersonation Rule, reflecting a heightened focus on deceptive practices within the financial services sector. Regulatory Context and Legal Framework  The […]

A New Legal Frontier for AI in Hiring

Employers may be entering a new era of accountability when it comes to artificial intelligence in hiring. A recent class-action lawsuit is signaling a shift in how AI-driven recruitment tools are being scrutinized—and the implications could be far-reaching.  At the center of the case is Kistler et al. v. Eightfold AI Inc., which challenges the practices of Eightfold AI, a widely used talent intelligence platform. The lawsuit alleges that the […]

Maine Strengthens Consumer Protections Against Medical Debt Collection 

Maine is taking a significant step to protect residents from the financial strain of medical debt. Governor Janet Mills has signed LD 2129 into law, introducing new restrictions on how medical debt can be collected across the state.  Officially titled An Act to Strengthen Consumer Protections by Prohibiting Liens on Principal Residences and Wage Garnishments for Medical Debt, the legislation is designed to provide a stronger financial safety net for individuals […]

Vendor Management And Vendor Oversight Are Not The Same (And Yes, It Matters) 

As I prep for my panel on Vendor Management and Vendor Oversight at Collection & Recovery Solutions 2026, I’m excited to share what the auditor with a heart has learned along the way.  Early in my career, I got a front-row seat to something that sounds subtle—but makes a huge difference in practice: vendor management and vendor oversight are not the same job.  I was responsible for vendor oversight. A colleague of mine handled vendor management. Easy enough, right? Divide […]

Cracking Down on Credit Repair Scams: What New Legislation Means for Consumers 

Efforts to rein in deceptive practices within the credit repair industry are gaining momentum in Washington, as lawmakers push forward bipartisan legislation aimed at protecting consumers and increasing accountability. The proposal, introduced in both chambers of Congress, reflects a broader concern about how easily individuals working to rebuild their financial health can be misled by companies promising fast and easy credit score improvements.  In the Senate, Lisa Murkowski and Chris […]

From Plaid Couches to Credit Cards: What Collectors Should Know About the Three Eras of Credit 

From a very early age, my parents made sure I understood their rock-solid, absolutely foolproof beliefs about money.  Their advice came in the form of long lectures—the kind that earned dramatic sighs and Olympic-level eye rolls from me. This is, after all, the same couple who proudly kept a brown, orange, and yellow plaid couch for over 40 years. A true 70s masterpiece. Practically a neighborhood landmark.  Their approach to credit? Simple: don’t use it […]

Washington Enacts New Requirements for Debt Collection Lawsuits 

Washington State has enacted SB 5720, a law establishing new requirements for information included in consumer debt collection lawsuits. The legislation requires specific details to help courts verify the identity of the defendant and the amount of the debt.  Requirements Under SB 5720  According to the Uniform Law Commission, SB 5720 requires that consumers be provided with information necessary to understand claims asserted against them and to identify potential defenses. The law also includes […]