A Barclays customer has vented their frustration with the bank after being stung by additional charges on top of their standard subscription package. The disgruntled customer voiced their concerns to the banking giant about its Tech Pack, saying: “Your Tech Pack is a rip-off. £49 to repair an old iPhone?”
“What is it that I’ve been giving you money every month since November 2009 for?” The Tech Pack is available to certain current account holders, offering protection for their mobile devices, covering them for repairs or theft. This service comes at a monthly cost of £14.50 and covers up to four devices, as long as each was bought for up to £1,500. However, users may face extra fees.
Responding to explain the rules, Barclays said: “If a device is damaged or needs replaced there is an excess charge for the claim. I’ve included a link with the terms and conditions of the tech pack and additional charges that may apply.”
They provided a link to a Barclays webpage detailing these supplemental costs. Customers are allowed up to four claims per year for a mobile device, which can include repair for accidental damage or loss/theft claims. If a customer has owned the Tech Pack for over a year, as in this case, the excess fees include £29 for screen repairs and £49 for other types of repairs.
There are also fees of £99 if a device is beyond repair, and £149 if it’s lost or stolen, provided the device is replaced or a cash settlement is made. Barclays also advised the customer they could call 0345 528 0182 or email barclayscustomercare.uk@likewize.com about their claim.
But the frustrated customer said they felt compelled to keep the Tech Pack despite wanting to get rid of it. They stated: “I can cancel my Tech Pack (I have tried before) – but if I do, I lose my overdraft facility. So basically I am trapped.”
Adding to their irritation, the customer said a local repair service in their area could fix their phone for £10 less than Barclays’ excess charge. Excess fees are higher for those who have had the Tech Pack for less than a year, at £79 for repairs, £149 if it can’t be repaired, and £179 for loss or theft.