This document discusses harassment by debt collectors using automated calls and messages. It notes that the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) prohibits the use of automated dialing systems and prerecorded messages to cell phones and home phones without prior written consent. Violations of the TCPA's restrictions are common among debt collectors. The TCPA allows consumers who receive illegal debt collection calls to sue for damages of up to $500 per call for negligent violations and up to $1,500 per call for knowing and willful violations. It advertises the Credit Education Group for help with issues of debt collector harassment.