Hi All
Sorry if there is a wall of text - I will try to explain the issue as concisely as possible.
Someone recently impersonated me at one of the Big4 banks, and took out, wait for it, more than $50k cash within 24 hours. I was alerted about it by the bank itself after the 15th time the impersonator hit the bank (mostly between 2 branches). I managed to barely stand my ground and nearly had a heart attack as it was my life savings.
Cutting to the chase, after all the investigations and info provided to me by the bank, I came to the conclusion that the bank clearly failed in its duty of care:
- Gave away so much money in so many transactions without even once checking the debit/credit card.
- Did not compare the account details with the fake driving license (which had incorrect info).
- Did not get a red flag or call me within the first 2 - 3 transactions
I have been going in and out the police stations giving statements and did not sleep for nearly 2 weeks, and don't know how I have gone through my job during the day (everyone including my boss noticing my lack of concentration and inability to work) while worrying about this.
I have been told by the bank late last week that they have given back all my money back (yet to check though), but I have been so shaken by this experience that I have lost all confidence in any bank.
With my health at risk and also my job at risk due to my boss having a chat to me, I need to know what rights do I have to seek compensation from the bank, if at all. I have no doubt that the bank should have prevented this happening (considering the amount, transaction count and the fact that it was in a retail branch).
Do I have any chance at all or would I be wasting my time? What else do you guys suggest? Any advice would be welcome. I have tried to search for a situation like this or a lawyer for such an issue but could not find it.
Sorry to hear man.
The bank has made a mistake, and they've paid you back in full.
Their duty of care is limited to making sure your money is safe.
By paying you back I think they've fulfilled it.
What sort of compensation are you expecting?
I doubt the banks would give you anything freely. They're already $50k out of pocket by reimbursing you.
Have you told your boss about this? I'm sure he would understand your situation.
You haven't lost your job yet so there's no financial loss there.
Have you been to a doctor regarding your health issues?
Unless you're seriously incapacitated and mentally handicapped from this episode, then I don't see any substantial damages being awarded to you.
My suggestion is don't fight what seems to be a losing battle, put it behind you and don't waste any more time on this.