Anyway, I gave in and went to the branch. I took everything bar the kitchen sink for identity Whilst there I asked if there was anything else they needed and was assured everything was OK and the online account would be active "tonight". No prizes for guessing what happened so I rang the help desk, went through the now well rehearsed responses whilst listening to their wretched music on hold (the trouble is that I am starting to hum it!). Forty five minutes later I get transferred back from India to the UK having "passed" security and then the girl said " I will get your account going now". Hurray I thought!. Then came the next blinder. "Can I have your mothers maiden name (well that's a really secure option isn't it?). I gave them the maiden name and guess what? "You will have to go to the branch because we can't verify it". Yes there are teethmarks in my desk and yes my hair is falling out.
How do they make such huge profits? It certainly can't be anything to do with the retail side. It's completely inept.
To be continued..... after my visit to the branch tomorrow.
