Russian bank fined for harassing family of missing soldier over debt
A bank in Russia has been fined 250,000 rubles (around $2,700) for harassing the family of a missing soldier over an unpaid debt. The case follows repeated calls to a resident in Anapa, despite her informing the bank that her son is missing in action. The issue began when the woman, living in Anapa, received persistent automated calls from the bank. These demanded repayment of an overdue debt linked to her son, who is currently missing in action. Even after she explained the situation, the calls continued.
An investigation by the Federal Bailiff Service (FSSP) found that the bank had broken Federal Law No. 230-FZ. The violations included contacting the debtor's family without written consent or the debtor's permission. The bank also exceeded the legal limit on automated call frequency. As a result, an administrative offence report was filed against the institution. While no other cases of banks harassing families of missing or deployed soldiers have been recorded in Russia over the past year, this incident has drawn attention to debt collection practices.
The court imposed a fine of 250,000 rubles on the bank for its actions. The ruling highlights the legal boundaries around debt recovery, particularly in sensitive cases involving military personnel. The FSSP's findings confirm that the bank failed to comply with federal regulations on communication with debtors and their families.
