Posting for traffic - please help

[HelpImStupid]

I've done something utterly stupid and I'm in tears. Can't tell anyone and don't know what to do.

I applied for a payday loan online, didn't realise it was a broker and now my details have been shared with loads of other people. I am unsubscribing from emails as they come but I don't know what else to do. I haven't taken out a loan and I definitely won't now but terrified 100s of people have my bank details.

Can they charge me even if I don't take out a loan? They have my bank details and address. I'm shaking. Please help.

[WhataMistakeaToMakea]

I don't know anything about it to give you an answer on whether they have your details but can you call your bank now and tell them your concern? They may be able to change your account number or block any activity for now?

[InfinitySeven]

They are bad because they charge you for the loan, usually, but they are unlikely to steal your bank details! Stop panicking :)

Do you need the loan? Payday loans are a bad idea, you have to pay so much extra back. Is there an alternative?

Do get a sugary drink and calm yourself down, though. You're okay.

[Shesaysso]

I would do what the poster above has suggested. Mcall your bank and explain what you have said here. I am sure they will advise and may also be able to help, a payday loan really isnt a good idea.

[londonrach]

Tomorrow go to bank and explain, cancel cards etc. now get out the chocolate... They cant steel money!

[cheeseburgerandfries]

The emails should stop. I know someone this happened to but was text messages and calls. Non stop for days. She was really worried. But it did stop, hopefully this will be the same as the emails- report them as spam and contact your bank perhaps. I'm not sure if my friend had taken out the loan or not, or if she contacted her bank though, sorry.

[HelpImStupid]

Thank you. Yes I will call Citizens Advice and bank tomorrow. I still feel very shaken up but thanks for the suggestions

[AntiHop]

Are you sure the other organisations have got your bank details and not just your email address? Anyway unless you have consented to taking out a loan with them (which you haven't), they can't do anything with your bank details. Don't forget that every cheque anyone writes has their bank account and sort code on it, so someone having your bank details doesn't mean they have access to your bank account.

I would suggest calling the Money Advice Service to put your mind at rest. They are a government body who advise on debt and other money issues.

www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en
0300 500 5000

[HelpImStupid]

Thank you everyone feel really stupid can't believe I was so naive. I hope the bank are nice about it, I'm so terrified and I haven't even got the stupid loan

[PtolemysNeedle]

They probably don't have your bank details, but even if they do, the bank will help you sort it.

These companies are very skilled at sucking people in, and at making money which is why they probably sold your email address. They can't charge you for anything.

Your mistake was easily done and is easily forgivable. Stop panicking!

[nancy75]

If it puts your mind at ease you give out your bank details every time you write a cheque - there really isn't very much people can do with just your account no and sort code.

The broker probably gives out info saying you want a loan and will then get commission if you take out a loan with one of the companies - I doubt if they give out more than your phone no & email

[Enough27]

They cannot do this any more. The FCA introduced new rules to deal with credit brokers on 2 Jan. They can't take money out without your express consent. If they do, report them to the FCA.

Don't worry about it

Sorry can't link www.fca.org.uk/news/new-rules-will-protect-consumers-from-harmful-fee-charging-credit-broking-practices

[Enough27]

And if you get spam, report them to the ICO.

ico.org.uk/for-the-public/online/spam-emails/