Willa P

FORMAL COMPLAINT: ******** Collection Practices and Non-Disclosure of Third-Party Status

Fines SA, I am writing to formally dispute the payments I have made to your organization and to express my grave concern regarding your business conduct, which I believe contravenes the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) and the Debt Collectors Act 114 of 1998. My complaint is based on the following: Lack of Disclosure: Your communications (phone calls and emails) failed to disclose upfront that Fines SA is a third-party private entity and not an official government or municipal authority. Misleading Representation: Your staff claimed to "assist" in reducing or negotiating fines to induce payment, without clarifying that such services are often available for free directly through the Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) or local municipalities. Harassment: The "countless" phone calls and emails I received constitute unreasonable harassment, which is prohibited under the Debt Collectors Act and the industry's Code of Conduct. ******** Collection: Under Section 41 of the CPA, it is ******* to use false, misleading, or deceptive representations to market services or collect payments. Required Action: Cease and Desist: Immediately stop all unsolicited phone calls and emails to my contact details. Refund: I demand a full refund of all service fees paid to Fines SA under these misleading pretences within 14 working days. Proof of Registration: Please provide your Council for Debt Collectors registration number to verify your legal standing to collect these funds. Should this matter not be resolved within the specified timeframe, I will escalate this complaint to: The National Consumer Commission (NCC) for violations of the CPA. The Council for Debt Collectors regarding your collection tactics. The Consumer Goods and Services Ombud (CGSO) for mediation. I look forward to your prompt response and confirmation of the refund.