phone4u/carphonewareho use: Dodgy Direct Debits (Onestopphoneshop.co.uk)

Member Name: Ashwin

Product:	Onestopphoneshop.co.uk
Date:	01/10/07 (178 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Well I guess direct debit is hassle free

Disadvantages: But how do you control it?

An important point (I think!) about companies debiting you for rentals and extras that you didn't seem to purchase: YOU have control over the Direct Debit on your bank account. At any time, call up your bank and ask them what direct debits are set up against your account. They will give you the list and also which ones are active etc. The ones that you think aren't over-the-table (like the insurance and VIP support and all those other things that are tacked on to a mobile phone purchase without them really asking you), CANCEL them with your telephone banker right then. Many of us are under the impression that once we've set up a purchase with one of these people and given them our debit card details, we have no control over when and how the money goes. Not true. Call up your bank and cancel any Direct Debits that you don't think are above-board, and then tell them -- the insurance or whoever -- straight up that you've removed the direct debit so don't bother trying to take money from my account.

Summary: YOU have control over the Direct Debit on your bank account.