HORRIBLE SERVICE + *********** CONSULTANTS

<p>I had the worst experience ever today. I went to the branch to update my cellphone number and after queuing for about an hour, the lady finally did it for me. A few minutes later I tried to process an instant cash transaction on the mobile app because I didn't have my card with me and the OTP was still being sent to the old number. I had to go back to the branch to enquire and they told me I had to sign an OTP form. (Why didn't the first consultant give it to me to sign). I queued again for another 20 minutes and the 2nd consultant handed me the form to sign and all was well because I was then able to add beneficiaries on the mobile app and the OTP was being sent to my number. About 20 minutes later when I tried to send money to my cellphone(instant cash) so I can withdraw and catch a ride home, it wouldn't allow me. When I phoned the call center to enquire, I was shocked to find out the ***** department had Permanently Blocked my card because they 'suspected a **********' transaction. They did not place a temporary caution hold like other banks do, they BLOCKED my card and told me I would only get another one after 7 days. I was stuck, it was raining, I was terrified of the possible flash floods as it has happened recently in JHB, with no money and no way of accessing the funds in my account. The level of inconvenience this has caused I cannot even articulate. I am now forced to ask for a loan in order to get home, and to get by until the new card has been delivered. What if I was traveling overseas?? Who was I gona get a loan from?? What was I gona eat?? What was I supposed to do?? This could have been easily avoided if only Std actually cared about their client's wellbeing. The incompetence of the consultant at the branch(enqueries 10) and the incompetence of the ***** department is what caused my suffering. Both on the same day.<br />IF YOURE GONA BE DEALING WITH STANDARD BANK, YOU BETTER HAVE A BACK UP PLAN. Carry cash or cards from other banks.</p>