The table outlining different forms of bank harassment and the steps you can take to address each type:
| Type of Harassment | Description | Steps to Address |
| Excessive/Repeated Phone Calls | Constant calls, often at odd hours, pressuring payment. | – Request written communication only. – Document call details. – File a complaint with the bank. |
| Threatening Language or Behavior | Use of abusive language, threats of legal action or violence. | – Record and document threats. – File a complaint with the bank. – Consider filing a police report. |
| Misleading Information | Providing false or misleading information about debt or consequences. | – Request clarification in writing. – Document all misleading statements. – Escalate to the Ombudsman. |
| Pressure Tactics | Forcing you to make payments by creating unnecessary urgency. | – Request all communications in writing. – Document instances of pressure. – Seek legal advice. |
| Public Disclosure of Debt | Revealing your debt status to others, causing embarrassment. | – Document the incident and gather evidence. – File a complaint with the bank. – Escalate to the Ombudsman. |
| Unlawful Charges | Imposing charges or penalties not stipulated in the contract. | – Review your contract and dispute unlawful charges. – Document unauthorized charges. – Seek help from consumer protection agencies. |
| Unauthorized Access to Accounts | Bank accessing or freezing accounts without proper notice. | – Review your account activity regularly. – Document any unauthorized access. – File a formal complaint with the bank. |
| Physical Harassment | Bank agents visiting your home or workplace unannounced. | – Refuse to engage and ask them to leave. – Document the visit. – Consider filing a police report. |
| Incorrect Credit Reporting | Reporting incorrect information to credit bureaus. | – Request correction in writing. – File a complaint with the credit bureau and the bank. – Escalate to consumer protection agencies. |
Steps for All Types of Harassment:
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of every interaction, including dates, times, names, and content.
- Formal Complaint: Always file a formal complaint with the bank’s grievance redressal officer first.
- Escalate if Needed: If the issue is not resolved, escalate the matter to the Banking Ombudsman, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), or consumer protection agencies.
- Legal Action: If the harassment continues, consult with a lawyer to explore legal options, including sending a legal notice or filing a lawsuit.
- Police Involvement: In cases involving threats, abuse, or physical harassment, consider filing a police report for your safety.
