The problem with online loan providers

I AM having a problem with Loan Tracer and its legal representative, Lifestyle Legal.

In September, I applied for a loan from Loan Tracer online. Its response online was that I will get an email from it, and should complete the application.

The next day, I got a call from a woman from its office, making a follow-up on application. I told her I was no longer interested in the loan.

I never took the loan. In fact, I never even completed the application with the company. I don’t use any of its services but, to my surprise, there was a debit order of R399 by Loan Tracer, which I reversed. Now I am being harassed by Lifestyle Legal representing Loan Tracer.

I think my name might have already been listed at the credit bureau as it told me that it had already sent the sheriff of the court for me.

I need your advice or the name of the institution that will advise me on this.

The National Credit Regulator last week released a statement warning consumers to avoid such “loan providers”. They’re in its sights – let’s hope action is finally taken this year.