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last mo.

Scotiabank Ordered to Pay $34,000 After B.C. Regulator Finds Debt-Collection Breach

Consumer Protection B.C. says the bank made more than 100 calls after the customer directed communication through a lawyer.

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Scotiabank will pay nearly $34,000 after Consumer Protection B.C. investigated and found that the bank had harassed a client by calling them more than 100 times in an attempt to collect debt. Photo by Jeff McIntosh /The Canadian Press
Scotiabank will pay nearly $34,000 after Consumer Protection B.C. investigated and found that the bank had harassed a client by calling them more than 100 times in an attempt to collect debt.

Overview

  • A signed undertaking posted Tuesday concludes the bank breached B.C.’s Consumer Protection Act in its collection conduct.
  • The agreement requires payments of $3,500 for investigation costs and $33,900 to a consumer education fund.
  • Scotiabank must revise its debt-collection policies and provide staff training on compliant practices.
  • CPBC notes B.C. consumers can direct collectors to communicate only in writing or through a lawyer, or tell them to stop and take the matter to court if the debt is disputed.
  • The regulator urges people to keep detailed records of collector contacts and says harassment includes excessive contact, disrespectful language or threats.