Which of the following would NOT be considered a common feature of debt consolidation fraud?

Providing adequate financial counseling is the correct answer because it is not a common feature of debt consolidation fraud. In fact, legitimate debt consolidation services typically offer sound financial advice as part of their service to help clients manage their debts responsibly. Effective counseling can help individuals understand their financial situation and make informed decisions, which is contrary to the deceptive practices associated with fraud.

In contrast, the other options highlight typical traits of fraudulent activities. Collecting payments without forwarding them to creditors reflects a common scam where fraudsters take money from clients but do not apply it to their debts, resulting in further financial hardship for the victim. Guaranteeing loans regardless of credit ratings reveals the predatory nature of some fraudulent schemes, as they often promise unattainable loan approvals to individuals who are in vulnerable positions financially. Disappearing after charging an upfront fee is also indicative of fraud, where scammers collect fees and then vanish, leaving consumers without any service or guidance. These elements underscore the unscrupulous methods employed in debt consolidation fraud while highlighting why legitimate counseling would not fit this profile.