Updated on February 19th, 2025 Author: stopcollections | Editor: stopcollections

Consumer Complaints Against AFNI, Inc

Disclaimer: The following content is a summary of complaints submitted to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) by consumers. The information provided is intended to inform and educate consumers about potential issues and experiences reported with the mentioned entity. 

This article highlights various complaints submitted to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) against AFNI, Inc., a debt collection agency. The purpose of this blog is to educate consumers about their rights and provide actionable steps for addressing these issues under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Below, we outline the most common complaints and offer guidance for affected individuals.

Key Complaints Reported by Consumers 

1. Identity Theft and Fraudulent Debts

One of the most alarming complaints involves allegations of identity theft and attempts by AFNI to collect fraudulent debts. Consumers reported being contacted for debts they did not incur, often with no evidence or validation provided by the agency. This practice leaves many people dealing with stress, loss of time, and potential financial harm.

Actionable Steps

• Dispute the Debt in Writing: Send a formal debt validation letter to AFNI within 30 days of the first contact. Keep a copy of all correspondence.
• File Disputes with Credit Bureaus: If fraudulent debts appear on your credit report, file disputes with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion under the FCRA.
• Submit a Complaint to the CFPB: If AFNI fails to provide proof or continues collection efforts on illegitimate debts, report them to the CFPB.
• Consult Legal Assistance: Consider working with an attorney specializing in consumer credit or debt collection.

2. Failure to Validate Debts After Multiple Requests

Many consumers reported that AFNI failed to validate debts even after multiple requests. According to the FDCPA, debt collectors must provide documentation that proves the debt’s validity upon a consumer’s request. Ignoring validation requests not only violates consumer protection laws but also creates additional stress for those disputing the debt.

Actionable Steps

• Follow Up Persistently: Keep records of your validation requests and follow up with certified mail to ensure receipt.
• Request a Cease-and-Desist Order: If AFNI continues collection efforts without validating the debt, request a formal cease-and-desist letter.
• Escalate the Issue: File a complaint with your state’s attorney general and consult a consumer protection agency for further support.

3. Threats of License Suspension or Legal Action

Some consumers claimed that AFNI used threats like the suspension of driver’s licenses or legal action to intimidate them into paying debts. The FDCPA prohibits debt collectors from using threats or harassment. Threatening actions that debt collectors have no authority to take is unlawful and creates undue pressure on consumers.

Actionable Steps

• Document Every Interaction: Record threats made over the phone (if legal in your state) and keep written records of all communications.
• Report Threats Immediately: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the CFPB.
• Seek Local Legal Counsel: Engage a consumer lawyer to address unlawful intimidation tactics.

4. Incorrect Charges for Services Never Provided

Numerous consumers alleged that AFNI attempted to collect payment for services they never received, such as cellular accounts that were unused or never activated. Such errors highlight a troubling lack of verification before initiating collections.

Actionable Steps

• Dispute the Debt: Request written verification and proof of services rendered before making any payment.
• File a Fraud Report: If AFNI insists on pursuing these charges, consider filing a fraud report with the original creditor.
• Seek Regulatory Assistance: Notify the CFPB and the FTC about any unlawful attempts to collect baseless charges.

5. Harassment and Aggressive Collection Tactics

Consumers reported persistent harassment from AFNI in the form of excessive calls and notices, even after they disputed the debt or clarified the error. Such tactics violate the FDCPA, which limits the frequency and manner of contact by debt collectors.

Actionable Steps

• Track Harassment Instances: Log the number, times, and nature of calls or messages.
• Request Written Communication Only: Under the FDCPA, you can ask AFNI to stop calling and only communicate with you in writing.
• Take Legal Action if Needed: If harassment continues, consult a lawyer to explore filing a lawsuit under the FDCPA.

Free Legal Assistance for Victims of Debt Collector Violations

If you’re facing similar issues with AFNI, it’s crucial to know your rights and act quickly. You don’t have to deal with these violations alone.

How To Get Free Legal Assistance 

• Step 1: Reach out to our legal experts for a free consultation. 
• Step 2: Share your experience, and we’ll help assess whether your rights under the FDCPA or FCRA have been violated. 
• Step 3: If applicable, we’ll guide you through the process of filing a claim and stopping illegal collection practices.

Our legal experts specialize in protecting consumers like you from unfair debt collection practices. Take control of your situation today and assert your legal rights.

Contact us now for your FREE consultation and stop unfair debt collection practices in their tracks!

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