Experts explained how bankruptcy firms trap debtors.

      May 25, 2026 19:40 Society For many Russians, the bankruptcy procedure has become the last hope to escape the debt pit. However, along with the increase in the number of those wishing to write off debts, a market of dubious intermediaries has emerged, promising guaranteed relief from debts. These intermediaries, known as "debt relief agents," profit from people's fears, taking their last money. This was reported by 360.ru. The Central Bank is fighting against "debt relief agents" Alexey Chirkov, head of the consumer rights protection and financial services accessibility regulation department at the Central Bank, stated in an interview with "Vedomosti" that the regulator is actively combating unscrupulous intermediaries within a working group. The group includes debt consultants, human rights organizations, and representatives of the Central Bank. The main task is to create a practice that will help people understand which intermediaries to approach to avoid wasting time and money. Chirkov emphasized that "debt relief agents" charge disproportionately high fees and do not create any consumer value. They do not solve the problem but actually create a new one, profiting from others' misfortunes. Sberbank sees improvement in the situation Evgeny Akimov, head of the enforcement and bankruptcy department at Sberbank, stated that up to 40% of bankruptcy initiators face unscrupulous intermediaries. However, the situation has begun to improve thanks to the implementation of three principles:

      - Increased attention to bankruptcy procedures from banks.

      - Increased responsibility for intermediaries.

      - Market transparency.

      Akimov noted that the Central Bank proposed creating a registry of bankruptcy consultants, and this idea has already begun to be discussed in the market. Companies have divided into "black" and "white": some have retained the old practices, while others have implemented standards for working with debtors. Bankruptcy should be a "safe harbor" Akimov emphasized that bankruptcy for individuals should be as originally intended—a "safe harbor" where the debtor can weather the financial storm. However, some unscrupulous advisors turn this procedure into a "pirate cove," where people hide their money and assets. How to avoid a "black" consultant? Unscrupulous credit consultants make unrealistic promises: to write off 100% of debts, preserve assets, and resolve issues through their manager. However, the initiated bankruptcy procedure does not always guarantee results, as the decision is made by the court. The court considers the debtor's good faith, their assets, and the origin of the debts. Often, unscrupulous consultants use the following schemes:

      - Take an advance payment from the client and disappear.

      - Present a regular consultation as state support.

      - Advise transferring assets to relatives.

      - Accumulate new debts before the procedure.

      The most dangerous aspect is that the debtor bears the consequences of such advice. If they hide assets, provide false testimony, or artificially create insolvency, no one will write off their debts. In some cases, this can lead to administrative or even criminal liability. Responsibility for violations of the bankruptcy procedure Lawyer Ekaterina Alicheeva confirmed that the responsibility for violations of the bankruptcy procedure lies with the debtor. If a person acted under the influence of an unscrupulous consultant, they will have to prove this to law enforcement or by any other means. The court may take this into account when considering the case. Market transparency: different approaches Experts have proposed different approaches to market transparency. Lawyer Natalia Kubasova stated that it is necessary to strengthen responsibility for illegal advice on concealing assets, transferring assets to relatives, or repaying old debts with new loans. Lawyer Alicheeva added that changes in legislation regarding the advertising of bankruptcy services have already become the first step from the government. However, it is also necessary to educate the public so that people only turn to verified lawyers, attorneys, and firms specializing in supporting bankruptcy procedures. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When republishing, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+