In the case of an emergency, here’s how to block your bank account and SIM card.
It can be highly aggravating to lose or get your phone and wallet stolen. However, if this happens to you, there is no need to panic; the first thing you must do is ensure your safety. In the event of an emergency, here’s how to block your SIM card and bank account.
1. Why are you doing it?
If your phone or wallet with bank cards is stolen or lost, you may assume that the phone or cards are the most important loss. However, there is a greater danger: the attacker or the person who discovers your missing things may gain access to your finances and even your identity by using your phone or cards.
Your bank data is most likely related to your mobile phone number, as it is for many Nigerians. Criminals can access your online banking account and transfer money from your account to theirs if you have your phone with you. That isn’t even the most dangerous scenario that can occur. After a victim’s cell phone or bank cards fall into the wrong hands, their entire identity was copied or stolen in some cases. That is why, in the event of an emergency, the first thing you can do is block your SIM card and bank accounts.
2. Blocking Your SIM Card
When your phone is missing or stolen, there are three key ways to block a SIM card remotely:
1. Use the IMEI number
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a specific identification number that is written on the inside of your mobile phone. The IMEI can also be found in the phone’s settings or in the box in which your mobile was sent. If you purchased your phone used and it didn’t come with a package, it’s a good idea to jot down the IMEI number somewhere.
If your phone has been stolen and you have your IMEI number, go to the police station to report it. Then go to your service provider with the report and your ID. They’ll use the IMEI and the SIM card that was on the phone at the time of the robbery to block it.
2. Without an IMEI number
Don’t worry if you forget to save your phone’s IMEI number; you can still block it whenever you want. You may opt to only block your SIM card, in which case you must contact your service provider. Alternatively, you can ask your service provider to block the system even if you don’t have the IMEI number – they’ll ask for your ID and a few questions to see if you’re the device’s original owner.
3. Access to Your Account
If you have an Apple or Android phone, you can monitor its location as well as remotely lock it so that no one else can access it. Simply open the Find My Phone or Find My Computer app for iOS or Android, enter your login information, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Read Also: First Bank Details and all you need to know
2. Blocking Your Bank Account
If you have your phone but your bank cards have been stolen or you are afraid that your financial data has been compromised in some way, you can block your bank account by dialing a particular number on your phone.
To block your operation, some banks require you to call a phone number, while others allow you to use a USSD code. Although you can block the account from your phone, if you want to unlock it, you’ll have to go to the bank in person.
The USSD code or phone number for each bank is special. You may obtain the appropriate code by calling your phone’s customer support line or visiting their website’s contacts section. If you want to block your bank account, you can use the following numbers:
#966*911# for Zenith Bank
*737*51*10# for GTBank
Text “BLOCK” to 30012 for First Bank.
Text “BLOCK CARD NUBAN” to 20123 for Union Bank.
Call + 2342798800 for FCMB Bank.