Harassment from debt collection agencies can make life stressful, especially when the calls come frequently, at odd hours, or with threats of legal action. If you’re dealing with Viking Client Services debt collection harassment, you’re likely no stranger to aggressive tactics. But the good news is that you have rights under federal law that can help you end Viking Client Services’ phone harassment if you encounter it.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects consumers like you from abusive behaviors. If Viking Client Services violates these rules, you might be eligible to receive statutory damages of up to $1,000. Even better, they’ll have to cover your attorney fees, meaning you won’t have to face legal costs to fight for your rights.
What is Viking Client Services?
Viking Client Services is a third-party debt collection agency in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. It has been operating for over 46 years. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Viking Client Services has had 78 complaints filed against it over the years, signaling a pattern of harassing complaints.
Their practices have also led to multiple lawsuits, with over 65 cases brought against them in federal court. Viking Client Services operates under various names, making it harder for people to avoid phone calls.
Below are some of the alternate names people may associate with this debt collection agency:
- Viking Billing Service
- Viking Debt Collections
- Viking Client Services Avis
- Viking Credit Services
- Viking Billing Services Inc
While they may go by different names, the core issue remains: they’ve built a reputation for using high-pressure techniques that often border on harassment. If you’ve been receiving their calls, you understand just how disruptive they can be.
Also read: Account Services Phone Harassment
Tactics Used by Viking Client Services Debt Collectors
Debt collection agencies like Viking Client Services often use aggressive tactics to recover funds from individuals. However, many of these tactics can be illegal. Understanding what behavior crosses the line can help you better protect yourself. Here are some common tactics employed by Viking Client Services collectors that may indicate harassment:
- Frequent Calls: If they have repeatedly called, often multiple times per day or at inconvenient times like early mornings or late nights.
- Profane or Abusive Language: Collection agents may resort to yelling, name-calling, or offensive language.
- Discussing Your Debt with Others: This includes contacting your family members, neighbors, or workplace and informing them of your debt.
- Threatening Legal Action or Wage Garnishment: Many debt collectors will threaten to sue or garnish your wages. While these actions are legal under specific circumstances, these threats are often hollow and only meant to intimidate you.
- False Claims of Criminal Activity: Debt collectors may claim you’ve committed a crime to pressure you into paying.
- Trying to Collect More Than Owed: If they demand more than the actual debt or try to add illegal fees, this could be a violation of your rights.
These are just a few examples of the tactics used by Viking Client Services collectors. If you’re experiencing any of these, you may have grounds for legal action.
Also read: Zenith Financial Network Debt Collection Harassment
Is Viking Client Services a Scam?
While Viking Client Services is a legitimate company, it has earned a reputation for crossing legal boundaries. Their history includes numerous complaints about their practices, with many consumers wondering if they are dealing with a scam. However, the reality is more complex. Viking Client Services is not technically a scam, but its methods can often feel deceptive.
The BBB says they’ve been in business for over 46 years, so they’re not a fly-by-night operation. However, with 78 complaints against them on the BBB site, their methods have rubbed many people the wrong way. Their legal troubles also support the idea that their collection strategies are aggressive and sometimes illegal.
Also read: Capio Partners Debt Collection Harassment
Viking Client Services Debt Collection Harassment: What You Can Do
If you’re facing Viking Client Services phone harassment, it’s essential to know that you’re not alone and that there are steps you can take. The first step is recognizing when their behavior crosses the line into illegal territory. By familiarizing yourself with the FDCPA, you can better understand when a collection agency has violated your rights.
Here are some actionable steps you can take to stop Viking Client Services phone harassment:
1. Document Every Interaction
Keep a record of every call, including the representative’s date, time, and name. If they make any threats or use abusive language, write it down. It will serve as crucial evidence if you decide to take legal action.
2. Send a Cease and Desist Letter
Under the FDCPA, you can request that Viking Client Services stop contacting you. Send a “cease and desist” letter. Once they receive this request, they are legally obligated to stop calling, except under specific circumstances, to inform you of a lawsuit.
3. Seek Legal Help
The Wood Law Firm can help you navigate the process of stopping Viking Client Services harassment. If they’ve violated your rights, you could be eligible for compensation. Call us at +1 844-638-1122 for a free consultation.
Also read: American Debt Management Debt Collection Harassment
Can Viking Client Services Garnish Your Wages or Sue You?
Consumers ask whether Viking Client Services can follow through on their threats to garnish wages or take legal action. The answer is yes, under certain conditions.
Suppose Viking Client Services is collecting on a federal student loan or obtained a legal judgment against you. In that case, they may have the authority to garnish your wages. However, they can only take your money with due process. The courts must grant them a judgment before they can garnish your wages.
Similarly, Viking Client Services can sue you if the debt is within the statute of limitations. If the debt is too old, however, they’re unlikely to be able to take any legal action. Always check the laws in your state to understand the statute of limitations that applies to your debt.
Also read: Alliant Capital Management Debt Collection Harassment
Understanding Your Rights Under the FDCPA
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects consumers from unfair debt collection practices. Under this law, Viking Client Services cannot engage in:
- Calling before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.
- Using threatening language
- Failing to inform you of your right to dispute the debt
- Adding extra fees or interest that aren’t legally allowed
You have legal options if Viking Client Services has violated any of these rules. You can sue them in federal court and, if successful, receive up to $1,000 in damages and compensation for attorney fees. The Wood Law Firm can help guide you through this process and uphold your rights.
Common Complaints Against Viking Client Services
Over the years, many consumers have filed complaints against Viking Client Services. These complaints range from phone harassment to illegal debt collection practices. Below are a few examples of lawsuits filed against Viking Client Services:
- Wagstaff v. Viking Client Services (1:16-cv-00526-JDL)
- Sieber v. Viking Client Services (2:15-cv-00159-LA)
- Garlicki v. Viking Client Services (0:12-cv-61259-KMW)
These cases highlight the recurring issues with Viking Client Services and demonstrate the need for legal recourse when their actions go too far.
Also read: Comenity Bank Debt Collection Harassment
How The Wood Law Firm Can Help You Stop Viking Client Services Debt Collection Harassment
If you’re tired of being harassed byViking Client Services, don’t wait any longer to take action. The Wood Law Firm has been helping consumers fight back against debt collection harassment since 2010. We have a proven track record of stopping aggressive debt collectors in their tracks.
Our team specializes in cases involving phone harassment and other illegal collection practices. We understand the FDCPA and how to use it to protect your rights. Contact us today at +1 844-638-1122 to discuss your case and begin the process of stopping the harassment.
Success Stories from Clients Like You
Our clients have seen incredible results when working with us to stop harassment from companies like Viking Client Services. Here are a few testimonials:
“I was overwhelmed with the constant calls and threats from Viking Client Services. After contacting The Wood Law Firm, the harassment stopped, and I received compensation for my trouble. I couldn’t be more grateful!”– Susan T.
“The Wood Law Firm helped me understand my rights and handled the process. I was stressed and unsure what to do, but their team made it simple.” – David L.
You don’t have to suffer from Viking Client Services’ phone harassment any longer. Contact The Wood Law Firm today, and let us help you get your life back on track.
Conclusion
Debt collection harassment can take a toll on your mental health, well-being, and relationships. But you can stop Viking Client Services Debt Collection Harassment in its tracks. You can reclaim your peace of mind by knowing your rights under the FDCPA and working with an experienced law firm like The Wood Law Firm.
Feel free to contact The Wood Law Firm at +1 844-638-1122 if Viking Client Services violates your rights. Call for a free consultation and start fighting back against debt collection harassment today.
Some Useful Links:
Minnesota Attorney General
Consumer Finance
