The Media Get it Wrong: When Debt Collection Isn't Debt Collection

You know what’s not really a “debt collection” story? This:

“2 Men shot and killed when debt collection goes awry”

Sure, the words “debt collection” are in the headline, so the average consumer/reader could be forgiven the confusion. But, facial tattoos and intentional hair notwithstanding, it’s pretty clear from the outset that this is not about professional debt collectors and is, instead, just about some dudes with guns and financial grudges.

This miscategorization doesn’t help the industry at all.

So: what about some grass-roots activism? What if — respectfully — we each of us take a moment to comment on this particular story, suggesting that it’s not a “debt collection [gone] awry” story, but, instead, is simply a garden variety aggravated assault gone horribly well.

(As another example, it’s not like any of Hannibal Lecter’s murders were described as “Man killed when medical amputation goes awry.”)

As much as good behavior, our continuing education of consumers and the media as to what the collection industry actually does will go a long way towards mitigating some of the bad press and ill will already in the zeitgeist. This might be as good a place to start as any.