Huge security issue. Be careful!
Before July 2019, I had a Power of Attorney added to my account since I was traveling and needed someone to have access to my accounts in case I needed a new card while abroad.
When I returned in July 2019 I went into a Scotiabank branch to remove the Power of Attorney (POA) from my account. Scotiabank confirmed that the POA was removed.
Today, almost 2 years later, the POA informed me that they still had full access to my account. This was all without my knowledge, as Scotiabank had confirmed with me that this person was removed, when in fact they were not.
I called Scotiabank today (June 18, 2021) and asked why the POA wasn't removed.
First, while asking my security questions, they ask who the joint account holder was (very unsettling since this person was supposed to be removed 2 years ago).
Then, when they inquired about my request they told me, "this person has been removed" meanwhile, the POA could still see all my account details and had access.
I let them know once again that the person STILL had access to all my details. (I couldn't see this from my account but the POA could see it from their account).
After waiting on hold for a while, I was told that this issue would be directed to the branch to resolve the issue. The branch got back to me to confirm this person was removed with the following message. "The contact center asked me to remove the POA access and I have done so. Please let me know if you need anything else."
Their team has handled this situation VERY poorly.
Having someone on my account for two years that had access to all funds, unknowingly, is a huge security issue, especially for a bank. Thankfully this person didn't withdrawal any funds that they had full access to and shouldn't have. However, other people in this situation may not be so lucky.
I have responded requesting the following information:
What caused this issue? Who was responsible for it? And what will be done in the future to prevent such issues?
Very disappointed. Be careful before considering banking with Scotiabank, especially if security is a priority for you. read more