I am not a lawyer and this does not constitute legal advice. The information below is for general educational purposes. For advice specific to your situation and jurisdiction, consider consulting a licensed attorney or reaching out to official consumer protection agencies.

Debt collection harassment—especially when it involves threats of exposing personal data or publicly shaming a borrower—is a serious issue in many jurisdictions. If an online lending app (or any debt collector) is threatening to share your private information or contact your relatives, friends, or workplace to coerce payment, you may have legal and regulatory recourse.

Below are general considerations and potential steps you can take:

1. Know Your Rights

United States (Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act – FDCPA)

Harassment: Debt collectors cannot harass or abuse you, including threats of harm or publishing your name in a “bad debt” list.
Threats and Public Disclosure: Debt collectors are prohibited from threatening to disclose your debts to third parties unnecessarily.
Contact Restrictions: They generally cannot contact you at odd hours (e.g., before 8 AM or after 9 PM) or repeatedly call to annoy you.

Philippines

Data Privacy Act of 2012: This protects personal information. Lending apps that misuse or expose your data without your consent could be liable.
BSP Regulations: The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and SEC have guidelines on fair debt collection practices. Collectors may not harass or threaten borrowers or contact third parties (like friends or employers) without proper justification.
Access to Phone Contacts: Some lending apps have been penalized for accessing a borrower’s contact list and sending harassing messages to friends or relatives. This may violate privacy and consumer protection rules.

Other Jurisdictions

Most countries have consumer protection and/or privacy laws regulating how debts can be collected, what kind of contact is permissible, and how personal data can be used or exposed.

2. Document Everything

Save Evidence: Keep screenshots of threatening messages, calls, or chats. This includes any message indicating they will “expose” you or contact your family/friends.
Record Calls (If Legal in Your Jurisdiction): In some places, you can record phone calls if at least one party (you) consents. These recordings can serve as proof.
Note Dates and Times: Keep a log of every call, message, or email—when it happened and what was said.

3. Responding to Harassment

Set Boundaries: If it’s a phone call, you can inform the collector that you know your rights and request they communicate with you in writing only. This may deter further harassment by phone.
Cease and Desist Letter: In some jurisdictions (like the United States), you can send a formal letter asking the collector to stop contacting you. However, this doesn’t erase the debt; it just limits the manner in which they can pursue collection. Consult a lawyer or a reputable consumer protection website for templates and proper procedures.

4. Report to Relevant Authorities

United States

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): You can file a complaint online if you believe a debt collector has violated the FDCPA or other consumer protection laws.
State Attorney General’s Office: Many states have their own consumer protection laws and an office to handle complaints.

Philippines

National Privacy Commission (NPC): If the lending app threatens to expose your personal data or is improperly accessing or using your contacts, you can file a complaint with the NPC.
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): Online lending platforms are often registered with the SEC. The SEC has penalized lending apps for abusive debt collection practices. You can file a complaint if the lending company is registered under the SEC.
Local Law Enforcement: If threats escalate to blackmail, extortion, or criminal harassment, you may file a police report.

Other Jurisdictions

Consumer Protection Agencies: Many countries have a consumer protection body or financial ombudsman that addresses unfair debt collection practices.
Data Protection Authorities: If personal data is misused, your local data protection authority can be notified.

5. Consider Negotiating or Seeking Assistance

Debt Management or Counseling Services: Some nonprofits and government agencies offer free or low-cost debt counseling. They can negotiate on your behalf or help you organize your finances.
Legal Aid Societies or Pro Bono Services: If you cannot afford an attorney, check if there is a local legal aid organization that can provide free legal services.

6. Protect Yourself and Your Contacts

Review App Permissions: If an online lending app has access to your contacts, photos, or other personal data, revoke permissions. Remove the app if necessary.
Inform Family and Friends: If the collector threatens to contact or has already contacted people you know, let them know you are dealing with a harassment situation and they can refuse to engage or block them.
Stay Vigilant Against Scams: Some fraudulent entities use “collection” as a pretext to gather more information or money. Verify that you are dealing with a legitimate creditor or collection agency.

7. Seek Professional Advice

Consult an Attorney: A lawyer specializing in consumer law or debt collection practices can provide personalized steps for your specific case.
Mental Health and Stress Management: Harassment can be emotionally taxing. Consider reaching out to a counselor, mental health professional, or a supportive community if the stress becomes overwhelming.

In Summary

If an online lending app is threatening to publicly expose your debt or share private information, you likely have protections under consumer protection and privacy laws. Gather and preserve all evidence, assert your rights, and file complaints with the appropriate regulatory authorities. Above all, do not ignore legitimate debts—but do not allow yourself to be victimized by unlawful collection tactics. If you can, speak with a lawyer or a reputable consumer protection organization for specific guidance.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes and may not reflect the most current legal developments in your area. For advice on your individual situation, consult a licensed attorney or your local consumer protection authority.