QLD Buy Mobile Phone for Friend in My Name - What to Do?

[Soo Uu]

A new friend of mine said that she was in a very abusive relationship and had to flee a few years ago. She does not go by her real name because she says that he is still trying to track her but I don't know if she has changed her name legally.

Anyway she needs to upgrade her very very old mobile phone and her daughter's original Apple iPod but has to provide ID to do so. She has asked me to buy them in my name and she will pay cash for them. I see red flags although I can't see that it is any different than buying a phone and then selling it on later.

I don't think she realises that she will need to provide ID to activate the prepaid SIM card and I'm afraid she will ask me to do that for her too.

 

[Tracy B]

Hi Soo,

I'm assuming that you are asking whether you should agree to your friend's request?

If you purchase the phone contract on behalf of your friend, you will be responsible for any debts or liabilities arising from the contract. Given that it is a pre-paid sim, whilst not advisable, the risk of incurring debts or liabilities on behalf of your friend is minimal as she will be paying for it upfront.

In relation to the mobile phone and apple iPod, I do not understand why she needs an ID to upgrade. Is she purchasing a newer model but wish to use the same sim/number? Why does she not just purchase a new iPod? She will not need an ID for this.

 

[Soo Uu]

Hi Soo,

I'm assuming that you are asking whether you should agree to your friend's request?

If you purchase the phone contract on behalf of your friend, you will be responsible for any debts or liabilities arising from the contract. Given that it is a pre-paid sim, whilst not advisable, the risk of incurring debts or liabilities on behalf of your friend is minimal as she will be paying for it upfront.

In relation to the mobile phone and apple iPod, I do not understand why she needs an ID to upgrade. Is she purchasing a newer model but wish to use the same sim/number? Why does she not just purchase a new iPod? She will not need an ID for this.

Thanks for your help Tracy B.
She is using a very old phone, so old that it doesn't have a screen. She went to Telstra and Myers and they both asked for ID. Telstra wanted her drivers licence. I have decided not to do it because she will have to provide ID for her new SIM card and I'm not prepared to go so far that I would put that in my name for her. There are just too many ifs and buts and I've only known her for a few months.
Once again, thank you for taking the time to help me. You have confirmed that I am making the right decision.

 

[DennisD]

Don't mislead companies, especially if it involves you possibly having financial obligations! RED FLAG!!!

 

[Tim W]

I have decided not to do it.....

You have made a good choice.

 

[BurgerMaster]

"I've only known her for a few months."

I would not trust someone I have only known a few months, I think her getting her name changed legally and sorting out those things first is very important here. I wouldn't even do this for a close friend.