Bust dubious debit orders

Unauthorised debit orders can cost you a lot of money and are usually very hard to reverse.

Start by checking your bank statement; ensure you understand all the transactions and have authorised all the debit transactions that reflect as minus numbers.

An unauthorised debit order constitutes fraud. If you suspect any unlawful transactions you should contact your bank immediately.

The bank will be able to lodge a query by tracking the reference number recorded next to the transaction. All legal entities must comply with the rules set out by the Payments Association of SA.

Now with Debi Check, the new system that will be implemented in all the major banks, all debit orders will be confirmed when you sign a new contract and your consent is verified.

When a dispute is raised, and it is determined that the debit order was unauthorised, it is reversed. Ideally the dispute must be logged with the bank within 40 days of the transaction. How to complain? Lodge a formal, written complaint directly with your bank’s dispute resolution department, and ask for a complaint reference number. Allow the bank 20 working days in which to respond to your complaint. Obtain a written response from your bank.

Consumers can contact the office of the Ombud for Banking Services for free assistance if they experience any banking problems or would like to lodge a complaint against their bank. – Ombudsman for Banking Services