Debiting an account without authorisation

[aj_underwood]

I have recently found out that a utility provider has debited my bank account with funds without gaining my consent first. No direct debit is in place and the transaction was a point of sale with my debit card. I usually ring to make payments or sent a cheque in the post once the bill has been received. Is this company within their rights to take money via my debit card without my consent or prior knowledge? Do I have any recourse with them or my bank?

[Sammy Snake]

Firstly, do you know why they have debited you?  Is it for a bill or do you think it is a genuine error and you don't owe them any money?

Secondly, where have they had your debit card details from?  They would need you card number, expiry date, issue number etc so where have they had this information from?

If you speak to the company and get no joy, I would go to your bank.  They can request a copy of the payment slip/authority and the debiting company have to provide this within a set time, otherwise they have to refund you.  They could say it was a 'cardholder not present' transaction (i.e done over the phone) and I'm not sure what happens then so ask your bank.

[jean88]

You said at point of sale, is it a contract that you have signed? Check the contract. Normally the company cant debit your account without consent, but it maybe the fine print, ring the company and speak to your bank as the other suggestions.

[stevie21]

Speak to your bank and you'll get a refund. The bank might want to cancel and replace your card to make sure it doesn't happen again.
Why not go straight to the bank about this instead of asking on a website?