If a consumer has properly disputed a debt in writing, what action cannot be taken?

When a consumer properly disputes a debt in writing, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) outlines specific protections for consumers. One key protection is that the debt collector must cease collection efforts and cannot resume them until they have verified the debt and provided the consumer with proof of its validity. This is why the action of resuming collection efforts without first mailing proof of the debt to the consumer cannot be taken.

In this context, the requirement for debt verification protects consumers from unfair practices and ensures that they are not subjected to further collection attempts until they have been informed about the legitimacy of the debt in question. The onus is on the debt collector to provide the necessary documentation before any subsequent collection efforts are made. This establishes a fair process for resolving disputes over debts, emphasizing the consumer's right to challenge the validity of the debt they allegedly owe.