In December 2011, I got a call from a customer service representative claiming to be from SBI offering a holiday package offer. They offered 2 nights 3 days package that could be redeemed at selected list of hotels/ resorts across the country. They also mentioned the hotels/ resorts were 4 star category. They asked me to pay for this package via IVR and informed that I’ll receive the package by mail. On receiving the package, I realized it was from Dining Plus and not SBI and on verifying their claim of 4 star category hotels from reputed websites like agoda , makemytrip and yatra, none of the hotel/resorts were of that standard.

I contacted DiningPlus customer support with this complaint and the executive didn't have any answer. I asked her about refund and she said they have a no refund policy. I emailed them at admin@diningplusindia.com mentioning this fraud and asked them to refund my money.

I filed a complaint with SBI chargeback unit chargeback.sbicard@ge.com with details of this. I sent all the material (brochures, Dining plus card, holiday vouchers, gif coupon) back to DiningPlus's New Delhi Address: 607 - A, Ansal Chamber 2, Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi - 110066 by courier.

SBI Chargeback asked me to send a scan copy of the courier receipt which I did. Finally after 2 months I got a full refund.

This whole episode raises some major issues:
- Is SBI selling sensitive customer data to fraud companies like Dining Plus?? If yes, should'nt they be liable for the loss of time and money and mental harrasment caused to customers.
- There could be genuine offers, but I think, it should be mandatory for all such offers to have atleast 3 month full refund policy.
- Before any payment is deducted, Customer should be sent detailed information by post / email about the offer with all Terms and Conditions.