Credit card holders beware

Credit card holders beware

From Kompas

I was flabbergasted when American Express charged me Rp 550,000 (US$ 237.70) for a payment to a particular Jakarta hotel when the account clearly stated: "Your account is now closed. Please pay in full upon receipt of your statement".

I really did not know what the payment was for, especially with the growing number of new hotels. I have not been there for quite a while because our guests prefer the newer hotels in Jakarta.

One day the query was answered with the arrival of a package from J.H.I., a five-star hotel in Jakarta, containing a certificate and a "H. Gold" card which was a membership card for obtaining discounts on its facilities.

I then recalled that some time before I had received a telephone call from "L" who inquired about credit cards. I was rather taken off-guard by the person's wiles and did mentioned my Amex account. The person finally offered me the H. Gold membership, which I declined. Afterwards there was no news from either "L" or J.H.I.

After receiving my statement I telephoned both Amex and J.H.I. to inquire. I never approved nor signed an agreement in approval of the offer and I wished to return the package.

It was a really unethical way of selling, if not fraudulent use of my credit card. Such sales methods certainly tarnish the image of J.H.I., an internationally known hotel, which should take steps against the culprit. I am convinced that other people have fallen victim to such sales tricks.

Credit card holders should keep their numbers confidential.

EKA F.

Jakarta