How to Block Your Access Bank ATM Card Quickly & Securely
Lost your Access Bank ATM card or suspect fraudulent activity? Acting fast can prevent unauthorized withdrawals and protect your account. This guide explains the fastest ways to block your card — USSD, the Access Bank mobile app, customer care hotlines, and visiting a branch — plus follow-up steps and security tips.
Why You Should Block Your ATM Card Immediately
- Prevent unauthorized cash withdrawals and POS transactions.
- Stop potential fraud or identity theft quickly.
- Minimize the chance of losing money while you arrange a replacement.
Fast Ways to Block an Access Bank ATM Card
Choose the method that is fastest and most convenient for you. The most immediate methods are USSD and the bank's mobile app.
1. Block via USSD (Fastest – no internet required)
Use your phone (preferably the one registered to your Access Bank account) and follow these steps:
- Dial *901*911# from your phone.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to select Block Card or the equivalent option.
- Enter any required USSD PIN to confirm.
- Wait for confirmation that the card is blocked — this is usually immediate.
Tip: If your registered number is not available, you can still call customer care or visit a branch to block the card.
2. Block using the Access Bank Mobile App
- Open the Access Bank mobile app on your device (iOS or Android).
- Log in, then go to Cards & Cheques or Card Management.
- Select the ATM card you want to block and tap Block Card.
- Authenticate with your PIN or biometric if requested and confirm.
The app method gives you a record of the action and often an in-app confirmation or SMS alert.
3. Call Access Bank Customer Care
If USSD or the app isn’t available, call customer service and request an immediate block. Be ready to verify identity with account details and security questions.
Common customer care numbers: use Access Bank’s official hotlines (check the bank’s official website or your bank documents for the latest numbers).
4. Visit a Branch
When other methods are not possible, visit your nearest Access Bank branch with a valid ID and account details. A teller or customer service officer can place a block on your card and advise on replacement options.
Does Blocking the Card Block My Entire Account?
Blocking the ATM card usually stops physical card transactions (ATM withdrawals, POS). It does not always disable online or mobile banking access. If you want to freeze all account access, request an account block when contacting customer care or visiting the branch.
How Long Does Blocking Take & Are There Fees?
- Time: USSD and app blocks are typically immediate. Customer care or branch requests are also actioned quickly once verified.
- Fees: Blocking a lost or stolen card is usually free. Replacement cards may attract a standard issuance fee — check with the bank for current charges.
Unblock or Replace: What to Do Next
- If you find the card and it was blocked as a precaution, contact the bank to request unblocking — you will be verified first.
- If the card is permanently lost or stolen, request a replacement card at a branch or via the app. You may need to complete a replacement form and pay any applicable fees.
- Reset your PIN and enable additional security features (biometrics, transaction alerts) after replacing or unblocking the card.
Security Tips to Prevent Future Card Fraud
- Keep your PIN secret — never write it on the card or share it.
- Enable transaction alerts (SMS/email) to monitor activity in real time.
- Use the mobile app’s card controls (block/unblock) proactively if available.
- Don’t share OTPs, PINs, or full card details with anyone, even people claiming to be bank staff.
- Prefer biometric or strong authentication for mobile banking where available.
What to Do If Fraudulent Transactions Occurred
- Immediately block the card using any of the methods above.
- Contact Access Bank customer care and report the fraudulent transactions.
- Follow the bank’s fraud/dispute process — provide transaction alerts and any evidence.
- Consider filing a police report for serious cases and keep copies for follow-up with the bank.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I block my Access Bank card using SMS?
A: Access Bank typically does not support card blocking via plain SMS. Use USSD, the mobile app, customer care, or visit a branch instead.
Q: What if my phone with the registered number is lost?
A: You can still block the card by calling customer care from another phone or visiting a branch with valid ID. USSD can also work from any phone if you have access to the registered SIM.
Q: Will blocking the card stop pending direct debits or standing orders?
A: Blocking the ATM card prevents card-based transactions but may not cancel standing direct debits or transfers linked to your account. Contact the bank to pause or cancel standing instructions if needed.
Conclusion
Lost or compromised cards are a stressful situation, but acting quickly reduces risk. Dial *901*911# or use the Access Bank mobile app for the fastest blocking options, call customer care if needed, or visit your branch. Always enable transaction alerts and follow security best practices to protect your funds.
Also check out: Top 10 Loan Apps in Nigeria That Offer ₦100,000+ — Guide & How to Qualify (2025)
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