Bank smart, fraud?

[Craigro]

Hello, just new to the forum as panicked when I saw threads about Bank Smart. I agreed to them checking for me as I thought no win no fee. This was weeks ago and now I'm getting letters to complete LoAs for companies I know I've never used.
what can I do to put a stop to it?
Thanks in advance

[EXC]

Ok have you signed any LoAs? Have you signed any terms & conditions?

[Craigro]

I signed initial paper work on 15/8/19. Not sure what I signed I've only kept their covering letter which mentions 'enclosed pre-completed forms'. I have since returned one LoA, think for Next plz but not sure.

[EXC]

Is this this the initial paperwork you signed? https://www.bank-smart.co.uk/terms_and_conditions.pdf

And you signed and returned one LoA?

[Craigro]

Yes I believe this is what I signed. And only one LoA returned, I have 2 new ones that I will not return.
thanks

[EXC]

Don't sign any more LoAs. I would suggest playing along with them on the one that you have signed ie responding to any requests for info etc.

[Craigro]

Ok thanks

[Awareness]

Craigo, I know this is late, but you don't need to play along with them.

If you've never had a relationship with the business they're asking you for your authority to look at, they can't charge you for their time. The new regs introduced last year meant that there's a ban on fees where a consumer didn't have a relationship with the Bank in question. So in theory, you can call them and tell them stop sending you those forms.

If they do say you've had a relationship with them, ask them how they know. You might find the business is part of a larger group which purchased an old brand you did have. For example, Santander owns Debenhams store cards now and a lot of consumers get confused when they get an LOA that says 'Santander UK Plc on it', in which case go along. If not, you don't have to suffer.

[EXC]

Craigo, I know this is late, but you don't need to play along with them.

I take your point about not having a relationship with a lender but I'm not sure it applies in this case. With Bank Smart we do actually recommend playing along with those who have signed LOAs because it can be easier and less stressful to deal with than not playing along.

[Awareness]

It may not do given what the OP has said about signing something for Next, which is owned by Santander, but I still think its important the OP is aware of his/her options

[Craigro]

Thanks, I haven't returned any more. Fingers crossed it goes away with nothing