Q: Is there a maryland law that protects against debt collectors calling other people and telling them about your debt?
A:
I don't know about Maryland specifically. Some states have such laws; most do not. However, there is a federal law called the fair debt collection practices act. It provides that a debt collector is only permitted to contact third-parties (like an employer or co-worker or relative) once for the purpose of acquiring location information about you if the debt collector does not know how to reach you.
The simple way to cut this out is to write a letter to the debt collector about your debt. Do not admit the debt, ask for proof (called verification) and specifically advise the debt collector that they are not to call you at work (if you work) as your employer does not permit personal calls and also tell them not to contact any third-parties. Advise that they may contact you only in writing at your home address - which you should provide. Send the letter certified return receipt requested and keep a copy for you.
If they call after they receive the letter then see a lawyer specializing in FDCPA violations as you may be able to sue.
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