Q: So when can a debt collector call me? How often? Are there rules that govern communication from collectors?
A: Debt collectors can call you, fax you, telex you, send you a telegram (if that is still around), and probably can email you. They can only contact you at reasonable times. In California, they cannot contact you after 9pm or before 8am. If you send them a letter asking them to stop, they must stop contacting you except to tell you that they are going to take a specific action (in other words, sue you).
Debt collectors can contact other people, but only to find out where you work or live. They cannot give out personal information about you to other people. Debt collectors cannot call you at work if they know your employer does not allow you to take personal calls.
If you have an attorney, the debt collector can only contact your attorney. That is it. If they contact you or anyone else, that is a violation.