Debt collection is the process of pursuing payments of debts owed by individuals or businesses. When a person fails to pay a bill or loan, the creditor may hire a debt collector or a collection agency to recover the owed amount. These agencies often use various methods to contact the debtor, including phone calls, letters, and sometimes legal action. In many countries, there are laws that regulate how debt collectors can operate. For example, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act in the United States sets guidelines to protect consumers from abusive practices. Debtors have rights, including the ability to dispute the debt and request verification of the amount owed.