Before heading out to buy a new pair of sneakers this afternoon, I went online to balance my checking account. I'd gotten paid recently and knew there would be a nice little sum there with which I could purchase some happenin' New Balance tennies. Imagine my dismay, nay shock, when my account showed I was overdrawn by $6 and that a purchase for over $400 had been made earlier today. I hadn't used my account since Friday so I knew something was way up. I started to shake and a chill ran up my spine as I combed through my account only to find debit after debit from a company out of Bangkok, Thailand. Now, I'm as international as the next girl (and possibly more so, in fact. I was born in a foreign country.), but I don't generally go around the Far East making purchases. At least not while I've still got a toddler attached to my boob.
In a panic, I called the bank and spoke to a considerate officer who, upon hearing my story, told me that they had just discovered this was a bank-wide issue affecting many members and that they were researching it. He told me not to worry, that all of my money would be returned to my account without any penalties. Wow. How kind of them to not penalize me because someone stole MY money.
I went to a branch immediately to submit a form of dispute and request that all monies be returned to my account (and damn quickly since I was now officially broke. Oh, except for that sugar daddy I've got at home. Props to Roger, My Love.).
Tonight I'm sitting here drinking some wine, thinking about how I've been violated and wondering what kind of cheap thrills some a**hole got at my expense. I mean, Thailand's not known for its finer arts, now is it?*
*I'm just kidding about Thailand. I'm sure it's a lovely place to visit with rich culture and beautiful beaches. But, be honest. You know you've heard the stories about what some ladies there can do with golf balls...
At least it was bank-wide so they won't give you the run-around to make sure that you aren't, um, trying to swindle them or anything. That bites. So I guess you put the shoe shopping on hold?
Posted by: MamaChristy | April 05, 2006 at 11:42 AM
How horrible! I hope it doesn't take too long to get straightened out...
Posted by: karen | April 05, 2006 at 07:03 PM
That sounds awful! I can't believe they were so generous not charge you a penalty. What a nice, nice bank. They sure better fix it fast!
Posted by: Sunshine Scribe | April 07, 2006 at 04:17 AM
I hope they return all your money! That would really upset me. LOL on the ladies in Thailand. My single brother vacations there twice a year. Hmmmmm. ;)
Posted by: Jamie | April 09, 2006 at 09:43 AM