Cash crash for tenants: 45 euros debited without consent!

Cash crash for tenants: 45 euros debited without consent!

In a current case, an incident with the company 123 transporter causes outrage. A driver was on the road with a rented panel van from the company and, according to GPS, was measured too quickly at 24 km/h. As a result, an amount of 45 euros was debited from her account without warning or approval. This was sharply criticized by the Chamber of Labor (AK), since the person concerned was not previously informed about the surveillance and possible additional costs.

AK President Günther Goach described the procedure as inadmissible and spoke of a clear rip-off. "We see a blatant lack of transparency and approval here," he said. Herwig Höfferer also reported on the consumer protection of AK Carinthia from an increase in inquiries about this company. The AK is now checking legal steps against 123 transporters.

legal violations and unjustified debit

The AK sees a clear violation of applicable law in the automatic debit without official punishment and without a SEPA mandate. According to consumer advocates, such events are characterized by increasing use of GPS monitoring and flat-rate contractual clauses, which take effect to the disadvantage of consumers. This incident raises questions about fair practices and a legal basis.

In general, unconscious or illegal debit from checking accounts are a common problem. A regular examination of the bank statements is essential to recognize false bookings. Consumer advice also offers support with such problems. One example is the case of a consumer who has paid more than 1,000 euros for a terminated telephone and internet contract for over two years until it claimed the support of consumer advice centers and reimbursed the amount from the provider.

Caution before unclear debit

In the case of unjustified debit, which often indicate subsequent contracts, consumers should immediately contact the company concerned. In the case of unclear deeds, caution is advised, since these can come from service providers that handle payments. Accordingly, unauthorized direct debits can be reversed from the bank within eight weeks, and the account can be blocked for the company for repeated illegal illustration.

The AK calls for a legal regulation to protect consumers from automated arbitrariness and draw attention to the available advice center. Those affected can contact consumer protection at 050 477-2002 or by email to consumer@akktn.at to receive support.