In Norway we have a similar system called AvtaleGiro but the bank gives me a lot more control over it than a UK direct debit. For instance I can specify the maximum amount that each recipient can demand and I normally set that to as near the expected amount as possible. If the creditor demands more the payment is refused and I get an email so that I can investigate and, usually, just increase the limit and re-enable the transaction. This doesn't cost me anything.

In the UK the banks will pay the direct debit even if you don't have any money and then charge you a fee for the unauthorized overdraft and another fee for the letter telling you about it.