SL
Simono L

1 reviews | Active since Apr 2026

02 Apr 2026, 08:07

URGENT ESCALATION: ABSA ***** Case Ignored & Unprofessional Call Centre Experience

I am writing to formally escalate my unresolved ***** case due to the lack of feedback and support I have received.

This matter was reported through the correct channels, yet I have not received any meaningful updates, clarity or resolution. I have made multiple attempts to follow up, but I have been met with silence.

This is concerning, especially given the seriousness of a ***** case and the financial and emotional distress it has caused me.

Additionally, I recently contacted ABSA to follow up on my case and experienced what I consider to be highly unprofessional conduct. During the call, I could clearly hear laughter in the background. When I questioned this, I was told, “Ma’am, we work in a call centre.”

While I understand call centre environments can be busy, this dismissive response did not inspire confidence, especially in a sensitive ***** matter. It left me feeling uncertain and concerned about whether I was speaking to the legitimate ABSA ***** department or if this could be another ****.

I urgently request the following:

- Immediate escalation of my case to a senior manager. - A full and detailed update on the status of the investigation. - A clear explanation of what actions have been taken so far. - Defined next steps and realistic timelines. - Written confirmation regarding the recovery of my funds. - Confirmation that I have been communicating with the official ABSA ***** department.

It is unacceptable that a client has to chase answers in a matter of this nature. I expect accountability, professionalism and transparent communication.

Please treat this matter as urgent. I require a response within 48 hours of this message.

Should I not receive a satisfactory response, I will proceed with further escalation through the Ombudsman for Banking Services and any other relevant regulatory bodies.

I trust that ABSA management will now intervene and resolve this matter without further delay.

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Replies (6)
SL
Simono L's update02 Apr 2026, 08:09
Reviewer Update
***** Case Ref No: ***8 ***** Case: FSZA-2***9
Absa
Absa's reply02 Apr 2026, 11:47
Official
Dear Simono
 
Thank you for bringing this unfortunate matter/incident to my attention and please accept my sincere apology. I will review and provide you with my specific contact details as well as the expected timeframe for further feedback/resolution via email or by making contact with you telephonically.  
 
The reference number for your complaint is C-***7.
 
Kind regards,
Group Customer Care
Vanessa Crowe
SL
Simono L's update08 Apr 2026, 10:43
Reviewer Update
I refer to your letter dated 07 April 2026 regarding the outcome of my ***** claim (Case Ref: FSZA-2***9), which has been declined.

I hereby formally dispute this outcome and request that my case be reassessed.

While your findings state that my login credentials were used and that no internal system breach occurred, I believe that the circumstances surrounding the transaction have not been fully or fairly considered.


On 20 March 2026, I was a victim of ***** involving individuals impersonating bank representatives. During this time, I received a WhatsApp message that appeared to be from ABSA, requesting confirmation of a transaction of R98,667.00.


This method of communication was completely unfami**** to me. Throughout my entire banking history with ABSA, I have never received a WhatsApp verification message for any transaction, including high-value transactions.


At 13:17, while under distress and being guided by individuals posing as bank officials, I responded “N – Not *****,” believing that I was protecting my account and preventing further loss.


Shortly thereafter, once I realised that the situation may have been *****ulent, I attempted to correct my response by sending “Y – *****” at 15:35.


However, I received an automated response stating that my previous response had already been processed and that no further action was required. There was no option to reverse or escalate the confirmation, despite the high value of the transaction.


I did not share any OTP, PIN, password, or confidential banking details at any point.


I believe this situation constitutes social engineering *****, where I was manipulated under false pretences and distress. I further believe that the use of WhatsApp as a verification method without prior consistent use or clear customer awareness contributed significantly to the confusion and outcome.


I am particularly concerned that:
- A single WhatsApp response was treated as final confirmation of a high-value transaction
- There were no additional safeguards, warnings, or human intervention
- There was no ability to reverse or escalate my response once submitted
- This communication method had never previously been used in my banking experience


In light of the above, I respectfully request:


1. A full reassessment of my case
2. A detailed explanation of ABSA’s WhatsApp verification process
3. Consideration of reimbur*****t or partial compensation given the circumstances


I trust that ABSA will review this matter fairly and thoroughly.

Absa
Absa's reply08 Apr 2026, 12:18
Official
Dear Simono
 
I will follow-up on the above as I was not provided with any outcome to complaint C-***7
 
Kind regards,
Group Customer Care
Vanessa Crowe
SL
Simono L's update08 Apr 2026, 12:36
Reviewer Update
Yesterday I received a call from someone claiming to be from ABSA ***** department. However, I am still unsure whether the call was legitimate. During the call, I was told that ABSA sends WhatsApp messages for large transactions, which I have never experienced before. I have also received a letter stating that my claim has been declined and that no refund will be issued.
Absa
Absa's reply08 Apr 2026, 12:56
Official
 
Dear Simono
 
I have since sent a follow-up on case C-***7
 
Kind regards,
Group Customer Care
Vanessa Crowe