Authorities Granted Power to Communication Service Providers' Interrogation over Collector Calls by Prosecutors
It seems the Federal Bailiff Service has been flagging issues with debt collectors using mobile communication for overdue debts. As per the recent explanatory note, most violations involve excessive calls and SMS, especially late-night calls, automated dialing, and unauthorized contact with third parties. In some cases, these actions can obstruct the functioning of social institutions or government agencies [1].
The document further indicates that bailiffs can request info from creditors, telecom operators, and credit bureaus to check for violations. However, creditors or their representatives can only contact debtors using numbers assigned through a contract with the telecom operator [2]. Additionally, masking phone numbers and email addresses during calls or messages is prohibited.
While the use of coded messages instead of phone numbers won't be considered as hiding information, provided that the sender's full name or the creditor's name and contact number are shown in the message [3].
This upcoming law, set to take effect on September 1, 2025 (excluding certain provisions), will be signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, following the Federation Council's approval [4]. For more updates on this and other news, follow our Telegram channel @expert_mag. #Federation Council #Bailiffs #Collectors #RegulationsInMobileCommunication #LimitationsInDebtCollection #GovernmentRegulations #RussianLaw #DebtCollectionPractices.
Do keep in mind that these rules apply to professional collectors, and the proposed change aims to restrict their capacity to receive enforcement documents swiftly, compelling them to process debts through the regular claims process. This strategy intends to curb fraud and offer citizens more time to safeguard their rights [1].
- In light of the upcoming law, it is important for business associates in finance to ensuring they adhere to the regulations regarding debt collection practices, particularly in mobile communications, as violations can lead to obstruction of social institutions.
- Under the new regulations, creditors should abide by the restrictions on the use of mobile communication for debt collection, such as not masking phone numbers, and only using numbers assigned through a contract with telecom operators, as excessive calls and other violations can result in penalties.
