A loan app, Delinquent Loans, has ignited public outrage after it posted photos of 87 individuals alleged to owe the platform money, in an unconventional bid to recover unpaid debts.
The controversial move was revealed through a series of TikTok videos uploaded by the app, featuring the debtors’ images and captions urging them to “settle your loans.”
Since surfacing on Saturday, the videos have gone viral, sparking widespread reactions and debates on social media. While some users found the approach unorthodox but justified, others criticized it as unethical and potentially illegal.
On X (formerly Twitter), user #KingSuleiman27 commented, “Has anyone seen the video posted by a loan app with pictures of 87 debtors? Better check to make sure your face isn’t among them!” Meanwhile, #latmos997 quipped, “They should collect the money from the views on YouTube if that’s their strategy.”
The situation also raised concerns about defamation and privacy violations. FaVōuR™, tweeting as #fhavourabia, remarked, “If we had a functioning government, these people should be sued for defamation.” Another user, #CroBender, noted, “Borrowing from shady lenders always has regrettable consequences.”
Others pointed out the wider implications of loan defaults. #smileebony explained, “Defaulting on a loan can lead to being reported to the credit bureau, affecting future borrowing opportunities.” However, #Emmabest highlighted the issue of fraudulent loans, saying, “Many of these individuals are unaware of loans taken in their names until they receive demands to repay.”
The app’s strategy has sparked a heated debate on the ethics and legality of public shaming as a debt recovery tool, with calls for regulatory oversight to address privacy concerns and consumer protection.
