FTC Report: Debt Fraud is Now the Number 1 Junk Telemarketing

If you’re getting suspicious calls about “reducing your debt” or “lowering your interest rates,” you’re not alone. The FTC’s latest report confirms that debt scam calls are now the No. 1 category of unwanted telemarketing.

On January 6, 2026, the FTC released its biennial report on the National Do Not Call Registry to Congress. The findings paint a clear picture: scammers specifically target people struggling with debt.

The main categories for unwanted calls

According to the FTC, consumers have more than 258 million phone numbers in the do-not-call register. Yet the calls keep coming because scammers don’t care about the law.

What a debt scam sounds like

These calls often include claims such as:

• “We can reduce your credit card debt by 50-75%”
• “Eligible for the government debt relief program”
• “Reduce your interest to 0% today”
• “This is a limited time offer, act now”
• “We are calling from your credit card company”

FTC Enforcement Record

The FTC has not been idle. Since the establishment of the Do Not Call register in 2003:

• 173 lawsuits filed against violators
• 570 companies targeted
• 449 people charged
• Nearly $400 million collected in fines

But enforcement can only do so much when scammers operate from abroad or use spoofed numbers.

The cheater corner

The second largest category – impostors – often overlaps with debt fraud. Callers pretend to be:

• Your bank or credit card company
• Government Agencies (IRS, Social Security)
• Collection agencies (for debts you may not even owe)

In 2026, these scams have become more sophisticated. AI voice cloning means a caller sounds exactly like your actual bank’s customer service representative. They use bits of real information to appear legitimate.

How to protect yourself

What legitimate debt relief looks like

Real debt relief options don’t come from cold calls. If you are looking for help with debt:

• Research companies yourself, don’t respond to calls
• Check reviews and complaints with the BBB and State AG
• Understand that no one can charge you BEFORE they help you (FTC rule)
• Know your options: credit counseling, debt settlement, bankruptcy

Need help figuring out your options? Take my Find Your Path quiz for personalized guidance, no phone call required.

If someone calls to pay off your debt, hang up. Real help doesn’t come from cold calls.–Steve Rhode

… (Source: FTC press release, January 6, 2026)

Frequently asked questions

What is the most common scam in 2026?

According to the FTC’s January 2026 report, debt reduction programs are the most commonly reported unwanted telemarketing calls, followed by impostor scams and medical/prescription programs.

Does the Do Not Call Registry actually work?

The registry helps reduce the number of calls from legitimate telemarketers, but scammers ignore it. The FTC has filed 173 lawsuits and collected nearly $400 million in fines, but enforcement is difficult when scammers operate abroad or use spoofed numbers.

How do I know if a debt relief request is a scam?

Red flags include: cold calls, promises to reduce debt by large percentages, claims from government programs, requests for advance payment, pressure to act immediately, and requests for personal financial information.

What should I do if I receive a scam call?

Hang up immediately. Do not press any buttons or engage in conversation with the caller. Report the call at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. If you’re concerned about debt, explore legitimate options yourself instead of answering phone calls.

Can debt relief companies charge upfront fees?

No. Under the FTC’s Telemarketing Sales Rule, for-profit companies cannot charge fees until they have actually paid off or reduced your debt. Any company that requires payment up front is violating federal law.