Attorney General Martha Coakley’s office has unveiled strong consumer amendments to debt collection regulations that will modernize existing regulations on how companies may contact consumers.

The regulations, which are expected to become effective later this year, will also regulate the way a passive debt buyer, or the company or person who does not originally own the debt, may conduct themselves, according to a statement. The amendments are meant to keep pace with changing technology.

The proposed amendments cover debt collection activities involve cell phones and text messaging; ensures both active and passive debt buyers are subject to debt collection laws; and prohibit creditors from attempting to collect a debt that is time-barred unless they make certain required disclosures to consumers.

"The amendments are designed to ensure that consumers are treated fairly when contacted by creditors to collect a debt and also to create a level playing field so that those creditors who refrain from using abusive debt collection practices are not at a competitive disadvantage," said Coakley.