I cancelled DD but didn't inform T-Mobile

BIG*N*BAD

In 2008 I signed up for a mobile internet package consisting of a USB dongle which plugs into a laptop for mobile internet (and it came with a free laptop too).

In August I lost my entire laptop case, dongle and all, overboard while stepping ashore, and have since bought a replacement elsewhere.

I cancelled the Direct Debit figuring that would be all that it took to cancel, but today I've received a letter asking for the overdue balance accrued since cancelling the DD.

I phoned the number and they're now asking for 3 months back payments, as in the T&C's it says I must contact them to cancel.

My question is, can they actually still charge me, apparently indefinitely? They can't have provided any service, as there was nothing to receive/send.

The letter states that they have "tried many times to contact me" - but this letter is the only thing I have received, and I'm guessing the contact they tried to make was via emails to the dongle at the bottom of the ocean.

Paying for three months rental for something I had no way of receiving, after I've cancelled the DD doesn't sound fair to me - am I supposed to remember the fine print of a contract signed 4 years ago - or am I missing something?

Surely cancelling the direct debit is a clear sign of intent?

Or not?

Does anyone know if I have a leg to stand on, or must I pay?

notbritishgas

BIG*N*BAD wrote: »

In 2008 I signed up for a mobile internet package consisting of a USB dongle which plugs into a laptop for mobile internet (and it came with a free laptop too).

In August I lost my entire laptop case, dongle and all, overboard while stepping ashore, and have since bought a replacement elsewhere.

I cancelled the Direct Debit figuring that would be all that it took to cancel, but today I've received a letter asking for the overdue balance accrued since cancelling the DD.

I phoned the number and they're now asking for 3 months back payments, as in the T&C's it says I must contact them to cancel.

My question is, can they actually still charge me, apparently indefinitely? They can't have provided any service, as there was nothing to receive/send.

The letter states that they have "tried many times to contact me" - but this letter is the only thing I have received, and I'm guessing the contact they tried to make was via emails to the dongle at the bottom of the ocean.

Paying for three months rental for something I had no way of receiving, after I've cancelled the DD doesn't sound fair to me - am I supposed to remember the fine print of a contract signed 4 years ago - or am I missing something?

Surely cancelling the direct debit is a clear sign of intent?

Or not?

Does anyone know if I have a leg to stand on, or must I pay?

Afraid you do not have a sea leg to stand on. You should always contact the supplier to cancel a service.

bod1467

Agreed. It has been said many times ... cancelling a DD does NOT cancel a contract (unless otherwise agreed in the suppliers' T&Cs).

BIG*N*BAD

Dang, I feared that might be the case - ok, thanks for the prompt replies.

macman

The service was still available, you just chose not to replace the equipment.
If you were to lose your mobile, you would still be in contract-no difference.