How to Block Your First Bank ATM Card Immediately & Securely
Lost your First 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, FirstMobile / OnTheGo app, SMS, customer care, and branch options — plus follow-up steps and security tips.
Also check out: How to Block Your Access Bank ATM Card Quickly — Steps, USSD, App & Customer Care
Why You Should Block Your ATM Card Right Away
- Stop unauthorized ATM or POS transactions.
- Reduce the risk of fraud or identity theft.
- Protect your account balance while you arrange a replacement.
Fast & Trusted Ways to Block a First Bank ATM Card
Use the quickest available channel. USSD and the mobile app are typically the fastest ways to block your card.
1. Block via USSD (*894#)
USSD works on any phone and does not require internet. Follow these steps:
- Dial *894# from the phone number linked to your First Bank account.
- Choose Quick Banking (if prompted) and navigate to Card Control or the card management menu.
- Select the specific card or channel you want to block (ATM, POS, Web, Foreign) or choose to block all.
- Enter your 5-digit USSD PIN to confirm the block.
Note: This option is immediate and ideal when you do not have internet access.
2. Block with FirstMobile / OnTheGo Mobile App
- Open the FirstMobile or FirstBank OnTheGo app on your device.
- Log in and locate the Cards or Card Services / Manage Cards section.
- Select the ATM card to block and tap Block Card.
- Authenticate the action with your PIN or biometric and confirm.
The app usually provides an immediate confirmation and an audit trail in your activity log.
3. Block by SMS (if supported)
If you cannot use USSD or the app, some banks accept SMS requests from the registered number. For example, sending BLOCK to the bank's SMS short code may be supported — check your bank’s official channels or documentation for the correct number and format.
4. Call First Bank Customer Care
Contact customer service for immediate assistance and human verification:
- Call First Bank customer care numbers (check the official website or your bank documentation for current lines).
- Explain the situation — lost/stolen/suspected fraud — and request an immediate block.
- Be prepared to verify your identity (account number, registered phone number, security answers).
5. Visit a Branch
When other methods are not available, go to a nearby First Bank branch with a valid ID. A teller or service officer can place a block on your card and advise on replacement options. This is reliable but may take longer depending on branch queues.
What Happens After You Block the Card?
- The card is deactivated and cannot be used for ATM withdrawals, POS transactions, or card payments (depending on block type).
- Online or mobile banking access is usually unaffected unless you request a full account freeze.
- You will need to request a replacement card if the card is permanently lost or stolen.
Unblock or Replace: Next Steps
- If you recover the card and it was blocked intentionally, contact the bank (app, USSD, branch) to request unblocking — you will be verified first.
- If the card is lost or stolen, request a replacement card (this may require completing a form and paying the standard replacement fee).
- After replacement, reset your PIN and enable additional security features where available (biometric login, transaction alerts).
Security Tips to Prevent ATM Fraud
- Memorize your PIN and never write it down or share it.
- Shield your PIN when using ATMs and never allow strangers to help you type it.
- Enable transaction alerts (SMS/email) to monitor account activity in real time.
- Do not share OTPs, PINs, or full card details with anyone claiming to be bank staff.
- Avoid suspicious ATMs and check for skimming devices before inserting your card.
- Regularly review your account statements and flag unfamiliar transactions immediately.
What to Do If Fraudulent Transactions Occurred
- Block the card immediately using any available method.
- Contact First Bank customer care and report the unauthorized transactions.
- Follow the bank’s dispute/fraud resolution procedure and provide transaction evidence (SMS alerts, timestamps).
- If necessary, file a police report and provide copies to the bank for investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there a fee to block my First Bank ATM card?
A: Blocking a lost or stolen ATM card is typically free. Replacement cards may incur a standard issuance fee — confirm current charges with the bank.
Q: How long does it take to block the card?
A: Blocking via USSD or the mobile app is immediate. SMS or customer care requests may take minutes to hours depending on verification requirements.
Q: Can I block only certain channels (ATM, POS) instead of all card functions?
A: Yes. The USSD card control menu commonly allows selective blocking of ATM, POS, web, or foreign transactions — choose the option that fits your situation.
Q: What if my registered phone/SIM is lost?
A: Use another phone to call customer care or visit a branch to verify identity and block the card. USSD may still work if you have access to the registered SIM on another device.
Conclusion
Lost or compromised cards are urgent situations — the quicker you act, the better. Use *894# for fast USSD blocking, the FirstMobile/OnTheGo app for convenient in-app control, or call customer care / visit a branch if necessary. Follow up with a replacement request and adopt best security practices to protect your account going forward.
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