CB
Carl B
Active since Mar 2019
14
Reviews
0
Industries
Reviews
14 reviews2 months ago
***** Claim Handling – Standard Bank
***** Claim Handling – Standard Bank I am posting this in the public interest after exhausting Standard Bank’s internal review process. I recently fell victim to a sophisticated phishing **** impersonating a courier partner (Buffalo Logistics) linked to TEMU purchases. The SMS was highly convincing and aligned with my normal purchasing behaviour. I authorised what appeared to be a courier-related charge of R18.99. Within seconds, R5,999 was deducted from my account to an unrelated merchant. I immediately reported the transaction as *****. My card was cancelled and replaced, and a formal ***** claim was lodged. Standard Bank has now twice rejected a full refund, offering only 25% of the ****** amount, with the offer conditional on my agreement not to discuss the matter publicly. While this is concerning on its own, the most troubling issue is a clear inconsistency in how ***** is handled. On a separate occasion, funds were withdrawn from my business account by Standard Bank after Capitec Bank advised that one of their customers had reported *****. In that case: No investigation was conducted with me No prior notification was given No clarification was requested Funds were removed immediately. Yet when verifiable ***** occurred on my account, supported by immediate reporting and a known pattern of courier-related phishing ****s (which Standard Bank staff themselves acknowledged), the same decisive action was not taken to protect me as the client. I am a long-standing Standard Bank client (approximately 45 years), with personal and business accounts and a home loan. I expected a more consistent and customer-protective approach. This post is intended to raise awareness and seek clarity on why ***** is treated differently depending on which party reports it.
168 replies
2 months ago
Great, efficient and easy sign up process
Great, efficient and easy sign up process. Fair price options
56 replies
2 months ago
Beware Pawzy pet gates
⚠️ Consumer Warning ⚠️ Purchased a pet gate from pawzys.co.za based on videos showing a strong, secure product. What arrived was flimsy and completely different from what was advertised. Company registration linked to Pawzys shows AR final deregistration and inactive directors (public CIPC records). Buyers should proceed with caution and verify before purchasing.
0 replies
3 months ago
No magic with this Merlin
An online order was placed with Leroy Merlin South Africa on 29 December 2025 and paid in full. To date, the item has not been delivered. Despite multiple follow-ups: No valid tracking or courier confirmation has been provided Emails receive only automated acknowledgements Phone calls are not answered No human engagement or resolution has occurred A final, time-bound written warning was issued requesting direct phone contact before 11:00 today. No response was received, and the deadline passed without any engagement. In researching this issue, we found numerous similar complaints on HelloPeter, including: “No product and no refund 1 month later.” “Trying to get a hold of them has been impossible.” “It seems that Leroy Merlin has a problem with both delivery and refunds.” This complaint is submitted to document a paid-for order not delivered and a complete lack of customer response.
56 replies
4 months ago
TCS Franschhoek - Disappointing Service
TCS FRANSCHHOEK – EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTING SERVICE If you’re considering signing up with TCS Franschhoek as your ISP, I strongly suggest you read this first. My experience over the last six weeks has been nothing short of frustrating, exhausting and completely unacceptable. I went out of my way to start my line-move process early. On 29 October, more than a month before my occupation date of 1 December, I submitted all the required documentation to ensure a smooth transition. I made it very clear from the start that my wife, my son and I all work from home, so uninterrupted internet access is absolutely critical. I did everything they asked, immediately. • Completed the new installation form the same day. • Completed the Frogfoot application and gave the full 30-day notice. • Followed their instructions to switch on and leave on the Frogfoot ONT. • Allowed for the previous owner’s cancellation window. • Even accepted a week of downtime when we took occupation early on 24 November. What I got in return? A month of excuses, blame-shifting, and zero accountability. 1. A MONTH OF SILENCE – THEN LAST-MINUTE CHAOS Despite having almost 30 days to book an installation, I only received a call from ECHO Optics (the Frogfoot installers) on 25 November — the day before activation was supposed to happen — telling me they would only be able to install the router on 5 December. Only after I expressed frustration did they suddenly “find” an earlier opening on 3 December, sent a technician, and replaced the router. You’d think that means I’d finally get online. No. Even after installation, the technician said I would still have to wait until the 5th for activation — making the whole “earlier appointment” pointless. 2. 5 DECEMBER ARRIVES… AND I’M STILL OFFLINE After repeatedly emailing TCS on the activation day, I finally get a one-line explanation: “We can’t see the ONT so we can’t activate you.” No explanation why they can’t see it. No explanation of what the technician did or didn’t test. No plan of action. No timeline. No urgency. Just: “It’s a Frogfoot issue.” 3. TCS BLAMES EVERYONE BUT THEMSELVES I am not a client of Frogfoot. I am a client of TCS Franschhoek. Yet every single delay, every unanswered question, every failure is blamed on Frogfoot, as if TCS is merely a powerless middleman. This is an actual response I received on 5 December: “We’d like to advise that we as TCS have done everything in our power… unfortunately the situation is out of our hands…” If it’s “out of their hands,” then what exactly am I paying them for? 4. ZERO PROACTIVE SUPPORT – NO SITE VISIT – NO OWNERSHIP TCS never once came to my home to investigate the problem. In fact, their excuse was that Somerset West is too far for them to travel. So: Does distance discount my monthly fee? Do I get partial service for a full price? Or is the customer just expected to accept sub-standard support? 5. MANAGEMENT ABSENT WHEN NEEDED MOST When I tried to escalate the matter on Friday, the response I received was: “Our manager is out of the office today.” After weeks of delays, missed activation dates, contradictory instructions, and zero internet access, that is the level of customer care I receive. I have been without functional home internet during one of the most disruptive periods imaginable — moving houses while running multiple businesses remotely. I went above and beyond to ensure TCS had everything they needed well in advance. Yet the result has been: - Missed deadlines - Vague excuses - Blame passed to other providers - No accountability - No urgency - No meaningful communication - And still… NO INTERNET If TCS wants to position themselves as a professional ISP, then “it’s not our fault” is not an acceptable customer service strategy. I pay them, not Frogfoot, and after this experience I genuinely cannot recommend TCS Franschhoek to anyone who relies on reliable service, proper communication, or basic competence.
0 replies
18 months ago
Victim of *****
Going Public with My Vox Experience After exhausting all realistic attempts to resolve this, I’m left with little choice but to share my ongoing issue with VOX. I had been a client of VOX for several years with business accounts for various sites. Initially, things went smoothly, but everything changed when we began relocating our offices. To ensure a seamless transition (since internet downtime could be catastrophic for us), I was in constant communication with our account manager. Part of the process involved re-cabling and new devices, and I was informed that VOX uses third-party suppliers and technicians. I was instructed to pay for these services directly, to ensure fast installation. The account manager sent me invoices, and I made payments of around R10,000, sending proof of payment to him. However, this is where things began to unravel. Part 1: *****ulent Invoices I later found out that the invoices were ****, and the business didn’t exist. The payment details were for the account manager’s personal account. We never received the services we paid for. Part 2: Unusable VOIP System We also purchased a VOIP system (VOBI), which was meant to meet our needs, but it couldn’t be activated in our new office because the required fibre installation was never done—even after two months of waiting. Meanwhile, we were being billed for a service we couldn’t use. To put this in perspective, when we switched ISPs, the fibre installation was completed in three days! Part 3: Exorbitant Overcharges We negotiated a package for around R7000 per month to cover the VOIP system and fibre at three sites, but our invoices were closer to R13,000! Even our former account manager admitted that this wasn’t right. After he was fired (and is now facing charges), VOX said they would sort out the billing mess and advised me not to pay until it was resolved. I continued paying for the services we actually received, but the bills kept piling up for the services we did not receive. Fast forward to August, I informed our new account manager that we would be moving to a different ISP due to the ***** and other mess created – we also had our internet services suspended for a while, due to the “overdue” invoices that we were advised to not pay until the issue was resolved – causing major disruptions to my businesses. Despite this, VOX has continued to send us invoices, which now total around R85,000, for services we’re no longer using—and in some cases, never could use, and have in fact even cancelled in August already. Last month, they scheduled a meeting to discuss this, and instead of resolving things, I found myself in an ambush, with five VOX senior staff; insisting I had to pay the full amount. I ended the call quickly, as it felt like nothing more than ************. Now, they are threatening to “hand me over” for the so-called overdue account. And, I still haven’t received any explanation or resolution about the R10,000 I paid for *****ulent services. I have consulted with my attorney and have evidence of all communications. Feel free to draw your own conclusions from this, but I felt it was important to share my experience. #VOX #CustomerService #Account***** #SmallBusiness
159 replies
20 months ago
Whatsapp Service line is brilliant
One of the biggest fears with consumers is how we are treated with after-sales when potential problems or breakdowns occur. Even the best products do occasionally malfunction. Although I have seldom experience any issues with my GoSolr installation, I have to commend them on the service I received when one of my batteries recently went offline. The Whatsapp service line is brilliant as they kept me up-to-date on progress and ensured satisfaction with services. Well done GoSolar.
106 replies
22 months ago
Rejected return because wet clothing was placed on a clothes dryer!
Order of events: Purchased : Home Clothes stand – Washline – Foldable Dryer 27-06-2024: Registered a return of item as significant rust all over unit made it impossible to use any longer. Item is designed to be used to hang wet clothing to dry, so the rusting of the unit makes it defective for it’s purpose. 1 July 2024: Response from JUSTIN, Takealot: Justin.C (takealot.com) Jul 1, 2024, 13:37 GMT+2 Hi Carl, Thank you for your patience while we evaluated your return request. Unfortunately, your return has been declined due to specific criteria not being met in line with our Returns Policy. as per policy: The following will NOT be regarded as defects and will not entitle you to a return under this section 3: damage arising from negligence, user abuse or incorrect usage of the product: damage arising from a failure to adequately care for the product; We will arrange for this item to be returned to you. 1 July 2024: My Reply: Please explain, in detail, what exactly transgressed the usage policy. I don't want a generic answer, I want specifics, as this will be used in my legal response. Keep in mind what the item actually is and what's it's intended use is. I expect a speedy reply please. 2 July 2024: Response from NATHANIEL V ( Takealot) Hi Carl, I hope this mail finds you well. The following will NOT be regarded as defects and will not entitle you to a return under section 3 of our returns policy: https://www.takealot.com/help/exchange-return-policy? • faults resulting from normal wear and tear; • damage arising from negligence, incorrect usage of the product; • damage arising from sea air corrosion; • damage arising from a failure to adequately care for the product; Kindly note that your item will be shipped back to you shortly. 2 July 2024: My Reply Hi Nathaniel Once again, a generic response. This is not good enough. Which of these conditions apply, based on your assessment. I am taking this further, both legally and also to the Consumer Commission, so a detailed response to what you have assessed to the reason for the denial is required. 2 July 2024: Response from NATHANIEL V (Takealot) Hi Carl. Please note that damage arising from negligence, or incorrect usage of the product are unfortunately not regarded as defects. Your item is being shipped back to you shortly. Kind regards 2 July 2024: My Reply OK, so now that you're confirmed that your assessment is that it was incorrectly used - please can you explain exactly how it was incorrectly used? Legally, to deny our claim, you need to provide me with the details with which your assessment was made. I await DETAILS please. 2 July 2024: Response from NATHANIEL V (Takealot) Hi Carl, Kindly note that your item will be shipped back to you shortly. You may track your item by using the following link: https://www.dpd.com/za/en/receiving-parcels/track-my-parcel/tracking-details/?D01RRN7MQKBEORV Your understanding is appreciated. 2 July 2024: My reply As you're choosing to absolutely ignore my question, please forward contact details for your superior or team manager. 4 July 2024: Response from MELISSA A (Takealot) Hi Carl Thank you for contacting Takealot.com As per the warehouse please see the below reason: Damage arising from a failure to adequately care for the product. Regards, Melissa.A 4 July 2024: My reply Once again... It is a clothes drier, intended to hang wet clothing in the sun so as to dry. Please explain what exactly was done to it, that qualifies your assessment that it was incorrectly used or cared for?? If you are unable to a see this question, please put me in touch with someone who can. 4 July 2024: Response from HERSCHELLE H (Takealot) Good day Carl Hope that you are well. As per warehouse notes the declined return has been shipped back to you via D01RRN7MQKBEORV_1 You can track the delivery progress on the link below using *** as your tracking reference https://www.dpd.com/za/en/receiving-parcels/track-my-parcel/tracking-details/? Return was declinded as per the following : • damage arising from a failure to adequately care for the product Should you require any further assistance in the meantime, please feel free to reach out and we will gladly assist you. Hope you have a great day further. Kind regards, Herschelle.H 5 July 2024: My reply OK – Once again, ignored my question. This matter will now go to the Consumer Commission to force a response So, apparently we misused a clothes dryer by putting wet clothing on it to dry!! I have lodged complaint with NCC today.
0 replies
22 months ago
Realnet George - ************ Estate Agency tactics
I am usually patient and understanding, but calling me a **** crosses the line. Honesty is fundamental to human interaction, and breaking someone's trust is a grave insult. So, don’t call me a ****! My negotiation with Johan (RealNet George) began on June 11 for a property in Loerie Park (6 De Mist Street). The advertised price was R22,000 per month, one of the highest in its category, but I wanted to see it anyway. On June 14, I realized the house was overpriced. While I respect the owner’s right to set a price, it’s my prerogative to accept, negotiate, or reject it. The house is very old and hasn’t been upgraded or renovated for decades. It has no kitchen fittings (stove/oven), no shower in the main bathroom, outdated sanitaryware, torn carpets, and more. Despite this, the house size suited our needs, but not at the asking price. I decided to negotiate with what I thought was a generous offer: If the owner dropped the price to R16,000, I would replace the carpets with tiles and install showers at my own expense, both in the main house and the granny flat (offer made June 17). On June 18, the owner countered with R18,000, leaving the house as is. I agreed to this and requested early occupancy without extra rent (Proof available). Johan confirmed this arrangement on June 18 and requested I send in the documents. He then claimed he hadn’t discussed the R18,000 price with the owner, despite previously stating that the owner himself, suggested the R18,000. I completed the application forms, filling in the agreed-upon R18,000 before signing. On June 20, I received a message from RealNet (Tracey) stating that Johan informed her the rent was now R20,000 per month. This angered me, as we had already agreed on a price, and I had completed the forms. I stated that I would not be interested in the property at that price and canceled the application. As a last attempt to salvage the relationship, I offered R19,000 if the owner agreed to install an oven/stove in the kitchen. Johan agreed to this on June 20. Over the weekend, I paid the deposit and the first month’s rent of R38,000 plus a R700 contract fee. On June 24, I received a message that they wanted to charge me occupational rent if I moved in five days early. Although this is standard practice, it was not what we had agreed upon, and it was another flip-flop of the terms. I decided to withdraw my offer completely as I had lost trust in the agency and the owner. Johan’s response via WhatsApp voice note was: “Dit “Occupational rent” was nooit bespreek gewees nie en as hy nie by ons wil huur nie dan moet hy sy goed wat en loop. Ek het nog nooit sukke kleinlikheid in my lewe gesien nie.” Charging an extra R3,200 is a legitimate concern, especially when it contradicts previous agreements. He clearly intended to use that money to pay for the oven, which was his responsibility. Be cautious with estate agents like this one—record everything. (Johan's response to this on my Facebook post was to send laughing emojis - very professional)
212 replies
31 months ago
Cape Flats Audio Visual
As a long-time guesthouse owner, I'm left scratching my head at times over the way some folks treat our industry. 😕 Take, for instance, our recent encounter with Julayga Alfred from Cape Flats Audio Visual (072 024 4833) . They reached out earlier this week to book not one, but BOTH of our guest rooms! We had all the necessary details, even their company information, email, and everything needed to send an invoice. Their arrival was set for today. So, being the gracious hosts we strive to be, I gave them a friendly call about half an hour ago just to confirm their arrival time. But here's the twist - they'd found another place to stay! It was a recent booking, and their company was footing the bill, so we hadn't even expected a deposit yet. I tried to explain how this sudden change meant lost income for two rooms, but the call was abruptly ended, and I found myself blocked. Seriously, folks? You come to our charming town and then you treat our hospitality industry like this? 🤷♂️ P'd off! Other guesthouses need to be warned... #Hospitality #GuesthouseLife #RespectOurIndustry
0 replies
Review Distribution
5 Star
4 (28.571428571428573%)
4 Star
0 (0%)
3 Star
0 (0%)
2 Star
0 (0%)
1 Star
10 (71.42857142857143%)