Legal Advice on Badoo Disputes

Questioner

I deleted my account from dating site Badoo. I immediately received an email that I had chosen a new subscription and that an amount of 65.99 would soon be debited from my account. I immediately sent an email to Badoo and asked for an explanation of how this could happen. I received the answer that I had accidentally clicked on a link and that I have to pay the costs. I replied that I would definitely not do that and would reverse the amount if it were still debited from my account. I also informed them that according to Article 6:193b et seq. of the Dutch Civil Code, they are not allowed to simply debit money from my account without my permission. My question is the following; am I within my rights and what if Badoo threatens me with a debt collection agency?

Lawyer

If Badoo engages a debt collection agency, there will need to be a solid burden of proof for your claim that they have. You are also entitled to your cooling-off period. Baddoo is not within its rights. Questions? Feel free to ask.

Questioner

Can and may I ignore them if they send a direct debit?

Lawyer

No, you must ask for the agreement proving that Baddoo's claim is correct.

Questioner

Can and may I ignore them if they send a direct debit?

Questioner

But how can I prove that I did not click on a link for a new subscription? In fact, I deleted my account and then I immediately received an email that I had chosen a Premium subscription. And is Badoo allowed to debit money from my account without my permission? I did make a payment via Ideal the first time and now it seems that they can use it without permission via ADYEN NV I did send an email to Badoo stating that I would reverse the amount if it was debited. Isn't that my right?

Lawyer

Yes, that is your right. Baddoo must prove that there is an agreement. And you have the right to withdraw your action. If desired, I can legally assist you in this.

Questioner

Thank you in advance for your answers to my questions, I will first wait for Badoo's response and see how they react if I reverse the amount, I will take your advice to heart.