"Unknown caller" will no longer call: collectors will be required to disclose the number and identity

From September 1, 2025, a law aimed at combating so-called "phone terrorism" by collectors and other debt collectors comes into force in Russia. The document, which passed the second and third readings in the State Duma, establishes new rules for interaction with debtors and significantly strengthens the protection of their rights.

"Phone terrorism" refers to frequent and intrusive calls during non-working hours, including at night, not only to the debtors themselves, but also to their relatives, colleagues, and neighbors. In some cases, collectors threaten, exert pressure, and disclose confidential information. About 90% of violations occur through mobile communications.

For the first time, the legislation introduces a mechanism for operational interaction between the Federal Bailiff Service (FSSP) and mobile operators and Credit Bureaus. This will allow for a quick response to citizens' complaints, obtain call details, and establish who owns a particular number. An application can be submitted through the "Gosuslugi" portal, and the agency's response will be received within five business days.

The new law obliges collectors to use only officially registered numbers with the telecom operator. Each message (including SMS and messengers) must include the creditor's name and a contact phone number for feedback. If a letter signature is displayed, it must be accompanied by a real number. Anonymous calls, including those with the signature "unknown caller", will become grounds for a complaint to the FSSP.

The law also strengthens the "right to silence". If the debtor notifies the collector of their refusal to communicate, any calls, messages, and letters must cease after three business days. The same rule applies in the event of withdrawal of consent by a third party who previously received calls. An exception is made only for situations where the debt is confirmed by a court: then the creditor receives two months for contact, after which the ban is renewed.

To speed up the proceedings, collection agencies and banks are required to keep records of calls, correspondence, and message logs for a year and a half - previously the term was three years. This is enough to verify complaints, and older archives can be deleted.

Thus, the law not only limits the actions of unscrupulous collectors, but also creates an effective tool for promptly responding to complaints from debtors and their relatives.

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