Data Protection Act Request (warning them first)

[ridpath]

Hi,

I've read throught the FAQs about contacting the bank to get details of charges under the Data Protection Act. Should I let them know that the purpose of the request is to take them to court to refund the charges in the hope that the initial letter will make them take me seriously, or should I wait?

I don't think there's a definite answer but any opinions would be welcome! Ta.

[Spiceskull]

You are exercising your right to have this information under the Data Protection Act. Your reasons are none of their business (although they will probably suspect what those reasons are...)

If they ask, tell them that it is none of their business in as polite a way as you wish...good luck.

[Bookworm]

They won't suspect, they'll know. And they can't do nuttin' 'bout it. Isn't that the greatest feeling?

[ridpath]

Hi,

Thanks for the quick advice! I've written the Data Protection Act request letter and it's going tomorrow morning, recorded. I'll you know how it goes...

I was thinking about keeping a blog with a progress diary, uploading the letters, etc. Would it be OK to post the address to encourage others? I was going to tell Co-Op that I'm publishing all of their letters online to spur them on. Also, perhaps it will help others if they see how the banks respond.

Amit

[ridpath]

Hi,

Re my previous postings I haven't received any objections so here it is:

http://youngamster.typepad.com/bankfight/

I'm going to upload all of the letters I send to and receive from the Co-Op. If anyone wants to comment on the site please do, either on the site itself or this thread.

Likewise, if I've made any errors or useful ommisions please let me know!

Amit

[panther12]

I sent my Data Protection Act to the Co-op last week as per the templates library letter. I was hoping that if they know why I want the info then there's a chance they will do the work for me and credit all the money back without me having to write further letters. I suppose that's wishful thinking but you never know.

[ridpath]

You never know! I think the previous posts indicate that they will know straight away why we're writing, but I've argued bank charges with the Co-op before, asking to speak to a supervisor but they've never buckled.

They maintain that the charges are fair and inline with t&c, etc. so I think that I may have to go all the way, but for £30 for a Small Claims Court judgement online I'm willing to give it a go!

Good luck.

[StoneLaughter]

Notice they always claim their charges are within their T&C's... but they NEVER verbally claim that their T&C's are within UK LAW!!!

[jwright]

Just to say what a fanastic site this is. I am taking on the Co-op, Nationwide and GE Money.
I will post on each forum my progress.
I had a reply and returned £10 cheque from the Co-op (it must have been sent return) I had assumed that Data Protection Act's for two accounts would be £20. I could not find any clues on the forums to that one. But the returned cheque confirms it is one fee regardless of how many accounts.

I want to thank all those responsible for their time and energy and goodwill in making all this accurate and legal info available to the world so that we can take on these megaliths. Awesome.

(Actually - its in the stars. Ask an astrolger)

So, I have had a reply from the Co-op return post confirming that they will provide the information I have requested within 40 days.