For instance, filing
bankruptcy can influence the
status of your security clearance if you don't inform your employer
about your
bankruptcy and why you've filed for
bankruptcy, and can also limit future job opportunities depending on the field of work you are in.
The primary consumer protection problem areas that have given rise to the States» actions include: (1) unsubstantiated claims of consumer savings; (2) deceptive representations
about the length of time necessary to complete a debt relief program; (3) misleading or failing to adequately inform consumers that they will be subject to continued collection efforts, including lawsuits, and that their account balances will increase due to extended nonpayment under the program; (4) deceptive disparagement of consumer credit counseling; (5) deceptive disparagement of
bankruptcy as an alternative for debtors; (6) lack of screening and analysis to determine suitability of debt relief programs for individual debtors; (7) the collection of substantial up - front fees so the debt relief company gains even if it fails to perform; (8) lack of transparency and information for consumers as to payment of fees,
status of accounts, and communications with creditors; (9) significant delays in active negotiation or engagement with creditors, coupled with prohibitions on direct consumer communications with creditors; and (10), in the case of debt settlement companies, basing savings claims (and settlement fees) not on the original account balance, but on the inflated amount due (including late fees and default rates of interest) at the time of settlement.