How to Feel & Be Treated Like a Criminal, Part I

First, get a checking account at Barclay’s Bank in Paris. Then, make a huge deposit of cash into that account. Wait one week. Your ATM card will be cut off without any notice. Then, go to the branch where you opened your account (mine has been there for about 6 years now). Explain what happened. Sit calmly (if you can) and listen while they explain to you that for whatever reason there is a lock on your card. Your card is no longer functional. You have been ‘re-assigned’ to a new Account Manager who has no office and is only reachable online or by email. Said new account manager will call you ‘’as soon as possible’’. Ask when that is. You will be told ‘’as soon as possible’’ and that your card may work again in a few days, or it may not. Ask what the problem is. You will not be told. But you will be told that with even thousands of dollars cash in your account, you have what they consider to be a ‘lesser account’. They will offer to ‘give you money today’ – wow – isn’t that amazing? They are going to ‘’give’’ me my own money? Ask to speak to a manager. You will be told there are no managers at this branch (the main branch in Paris). Go home, call the “new account manager”. You will be told she is busy and will call you right back. Wait about an hour. She does not call.

Part II

I receive this letter today (mind you I have held this account for nearly 6 years, and never received a letter or a telephone call of any type from these people either in France or California).

Dear Mrs Allen,

I would like to welcome you as a new MyBarclays customer.


As mentioned in the letter recently sent to you, I have been designated to manage your account.


I've tried to reach you this morning on the telephone with no success, I confirm I have unlocked your card yesterday as I said to my colleague you saw in the branch, for your information, it takes 24 to 48 hours to be effective.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Burning question: Why was the card locked?