First Data Global Leasing - First Data Unauthorized Debit From Bank Account on a Returned Credit Card Machine Nationwide *EDitor's Suggestions on how to get your money back into your bank account that someone wrongfully takes it from you!
This report was filed with the Division of Consumer Services for the State of Florida against First Data.
In October, 2003, I subscribed to a credit card processing service with SunTrust, C/O P.O. Box 6600, Hagerstown, M.D. 21741 Merchant Number 825205410889.
Incident thereto, I leased a credit card terminal from First Data Global Leasing (First Data) C/O P.O. Box 17385, Denver, CO. 80217 Lease Number *******.
In March of 2009 I changed to Heartland Payment Systems for processing services. I then purchased directly from them a credit card terminal for approximately $200.00.
Suntrust was advised of such change. First Data, however, said, : Too bad as there was a non-cancellable leas in place and it would require a buy-out payment of $731.09 through 06.09.2009."
I requested that date, that they fax me a copy of said lease. I was told they would fax a copy of the lease that date.
On or about 05-20-2009 I receive a demand letter (Exhibit 1) from First Date.
Upon receipt of demand letter a call was place to First Data wherein we were told that they would NOT send a lease or other written documentation supporting their claim. Plus, the account would be debited $7.50 for cost of supporting documentation and/or a demand letter.
We submitted a registered letter (Exhibit 2) demanding written affirmation as to the obligation(s) they claim.
First Data responded (Exhibit 3). My last attempt to resolve this matter was a futile attempt (Exhibit 4 a letter from an attorney requesting a copy of lease and other supporting documentation from First Data) was futile.
The subject terminal had been returned to First Data in June 2009. On July 20, 2009 SunTrust without my knowledge, or permission withdrew from my account the sum of $885.51. I was told by my bank that SunTrust was a subsidiary of First Data and that is why there were able to debit the account.
<b><font size=+2><font color="#0000FF">EDitor's Suggestions on how to get your money back! </font></font></b>
<b><font size=+1>HERE IS WHAT RIP-OFF REPORT SUGGESTS YOU DO: </font></b>
Go to your bank within 60 days of the charge, or as soon as you know about the charge, don't delay, and tell them that there has been fraudulent activity within your account. Explain that you wish to file a dispute, and demand that they assist you in accordance with Federal Regulation E.
According to the majority of victims interviewed by Rip-off Report, those who immediately called their banks to dispute the charges did not get very far. Many victims got the following responses from their banks: we could not do anything for you or you waited too long; it has been more than 60 days.
If the bank is says that you have waited too long, explain to them how you called their 800 number as soon as the charges were found, and were told by the bank that nothing could be done. Remind the bank that they failed to assist you properly at the 800 #, and instead, provided you with an inadequate explanation of your right to dispute. Tell the bank that it's their fault time has expired, and since they gave you the wrong info to begin with, they will just have to deal with it, take the loss and reverse the charges.
Tell them the truth; this was unauthorized and your account was NOT to be charged! Keep emphasizing how you never authorized anything! Direct them to the hundreds of victims reports that were filed on Rip-off Report.com. And if you're at the bank, walk them over to their computer and make them go to this site! If you are on the phone with them, tell them you will wait while they access this site! Either way, be persistent!
<b><font size=+1>DO NOT TAKE NO FOR AN ANSWER! </font></b>
Let them know nicely, that you were advised to Report them (the Bank) and this situation to the Banking Commission in your state. Since each state has a different name for the agency/controller over banks, find that name before you call or get to the bank so you can throw it in their face. The more knowledgeable you appear to be, the further you will get.
And just continue to demand the Federal Regulation E form! The bank CAN, MUST and WILL reverse the charge! But, you must be persistent; ask to speak to the supervisor or the area manager for all the branches in the state.
Let the bank personnel know you are meeting with the media later in the day, that you would much rather they do the right thing (as most other banks have) by looking at the complaints and immediately reversing the charge(s) to your account; no matter how long ago it was. Be sure to call the Media if necessary so you are telling the truth.
If you have to, be loud (but nice) in front of other customers. If you are just calling by phone, the above tactics should still work. The bank can easily fax or mail to you the Federal Regulation E dispute form.
<b><font size=+1>CHARGES TO YOUR CREDIT CARD</font></b>
If the charge was to your credit card (not debit card, check card, or checking account), contact the credit card company as soon as possible to request a dispute form. Consumers usually have a little longer to dispute fraudulent credit card charges (up to 6 months), but it is better to act right away. In this type of situation, credit card disputes are usually successful since fraudulent companies often won't contest the disputed charge. In rare cases, credit card companies will review disputes, but refuse to reverse the charges. If this occurs, complain to a manager and let them know you will be filing a report here.
Remember Don't let them get away with it! Make sure they make the Rip-off Report .. <i>The more Reports filed on a Company or individual, the more likely it is that the authorities, media and attorneys will want to take action. </i>
And good luck Let us know how you do!
ED Magedson Founder
RipoffReport.com
Author of www.ripoffrevenge.com
Rip-off Report
PO Box 310, Tempe, Arizona 85280