Skip tracing is a process used by debt collectors to locate individuals who have gone missing or cannot be found at their last known address. This is often necessary when individuals have defaulted on a debt or are avoiding contact with creditors.
There are several methods that debt collectors may use when conducting skip tracing, including:
- Searching public records: Debt collectors may search public records such as property records, voter registration records, and court records to find information on an individual’s current whereabouts.
- Using online resources: There are many online resources that debt collectors can use to locate individuals, including social media platforms, search engines, and people-finding websites.
- Contacting third parties: Debt collectors may also contact third parties, such as family members, friends, or employers, to gather information on an individual’s whereabouts.
- Hiring a skip tracer: In some cases, debt collectors may hire a skip tracer, who is a professional trained in locating individuals who cannot be found. Skip tracers may use a combination of the methods listed above, as well as other resources and techniques, to locate individuals.
It is important to note that skip tracing is a regulated activity and is subject to certain laws and guidelines. Debt collectors are not allowed to use deceptive or harassing tactics when conducting skip tracing, and they must follow the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and other relevant regulations.
Overall, skip tracing is a process used by debt collectors to locate individuals who are avoiding contact or cannot be found at their last known address. It is a regulated activity that must be conducted in compliance with relevant laws and guidelines.