(ERIE, P.A. - WICU/WSEE/CW) – The way debt collectors connect to you could change in a more direct way very soon.

 A recent rule change proposed by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau would allow collection agencies to text and email you. This story first appeared on CBS News

Currently, debt collectors can mainly call people, though, there is some unregulated leeway for texts.

The changes are being recommended, because, for the most part, debt collectors operate under polices from the 1970s, when the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act was passed.

While the move could help collectors connect easier with a generation more geared towards testing, we're told, there are concerns over privacy invasion.

"That's ridiculous." said Erie native, Tracy Jenks

Jenks says she receives roughly four unsolicited “robo calls” every day, and while the calls aren’t coming from collection agencies, she thinks flooding people with texts and emails will be just as disruptive.

"It's already intrusive enough." Jenks said

Part of her issue, is not being able to decline a text like you could a phone call, but, there are some other worries, too, mainly, with scammers

"Scammers are opportunists." said Pam Marlowe, with the Better Business Bureau


Marlowe says scammers have been capitalizing on debt collecting phone calls, and would likely try to jump on the new development.

"And try to obtain personal information or money from potential victims." Marlowe said

If the proposal ever goes through, there are some laws in Pennsylvania which you can refer to if you’re unsure the message you received was legitimate.

In the meantime, Marlowe just advises people to monitor their credit scores.

Below, we have some helpful links on what to look for when it comes to debt collection, both with the process, and how to handle scams.