How to block the Firstbank atm card is not a mystery too difficult to solve as it might sound to some people.
With the right information, you can easily block your Firstbank atm card from the comfort of your home.
You can find the information you need in this article under the following guide:
- What is ATM Card?
- Types of ATM Cards
- How to block Firstbank Atm Card
What is ATM Card?
Automated Teller Machine Cards (ATM Cards) are plastic issued cards with chips given by banks to customers to withdraw cash and execute daily transactions from the comfort of their homes.
Its introduction has helped in preventing bank customers from going to the bank regularly to withdraw money and has made it easier to purchase goods and services in the comfort of their homes.
ATM cards are visa cards, master cards, etc. and these cards can only be used at ATM stands all over the country and require a PIN (Personal Identification Number).
All withdrawals using an ATM card are immediately deducted from the fund available in the customer’s account. All financial institutions including Firstbank issue these cards for the convenience of their customers.
Types of ATM Cards
There are various ATM cards but the ones majorly used in Nigeria are Credit cards and Debit cards.
Credit Cards
A credit card is a plastic card issued by financial institutions that allow the card owner to purchase goods and services. There is a stipulated time agreed for the repayment of the loan.
The funds used to settle the bills are not withdrawn from the user’s bank account, unlike debit cards.
Debit Cards
Debit cards allow the user to purchase goods and services, pay bills, withdraw funds from ATM stands, etc. The funds are deducted directly from the account of the user. There is a monthly fee charged by the issuer for using the debit card. Examples of debit cards include Visa cards, Mastercard, etc.
How to block Firstbank Atm Card
Whenever you discover that your atm card is missing, stolen, or can’t be accounted for, the next step to take is to block the atm card.
Without taking the right step in blocking your atm card, you might be exposed to fraudulent activities on your account like unauthorized transactions, withdrawals, etc.
Firstbank has put in place some measures to help its customers block their atm cards from wherever they are. Such measures include:
- Through SMS
- Through USSD Code
- Firstbank Mobile App
- Firstbank customer care
- Visit the FirstBank branch
Through SMS
To block your Firstbank atm card through your mobile phone using the SMS, follow the below steps:
- Go to the messaging app on your phone and select create new SMS
- Send BLOCK to 30012 from the phone number connected to your first bank account.
- Your atm card will be blocked immediately and all transacting activities will be blocked.
Note – This method works anytime irrespective of if it is within banking hours or not.
Through USSD Code
With the availability of a mobile phone, you can block your Firstbank atm card by dialing * 894*911#. Follow the subsequent prompt to successfully block your atm card.
Firstbank Mobile App
The advent of the First bank mobile app has helped both the banks and customers in performing various banking activities like transfer of funds, bill payments, etc.
Read Also: How to check first bank statement of account
Blocking of atm cards is part of the functions of the FirstBank mobile app.
Follow the steps below to block your atm card through the FirstBank mobile bank:
- Download the FirstBank mobile app through Playstore or app world
- Install it and sign in using your username ID and password
- Select the option
- Click on card services
- Select the type of your card (Mastercard, verve card, visa card, etc)
- Click on Hotlist to block your card
When you follow the steps above, your FirstBank atm card will be blocked immediately
Through Firstbank Customer Care
You can also block your Firstbank atm card through the various customer care service provided by FirstBank. Such as:
- Call: You can put a call through to the First Bank customer care service at +234 1 9052326 or +234 1 9052000.
- FirstContact:You can also reach them through 0700 FIRSTCONTACT- +234 700 34778 2668228 or +234 708 062 5000
- Email address – firstcontact@firstbanknigeria.com or socialmedia@firstbanknigeria.com
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/firstbankngr
- Facebook: http://web.facebook.com/firstbankofnigeria?_rdr
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FirstBankNigeria
Visit the Firstbank branch
If you have a Firstbank branch around you, easily work into it and approach the customer service officer with your request. You will be asked to fill out a form, after which your atm card will be blocked.
You can easily request another one immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I block my first bank ATM card from my phone?
Answer – Dial *894*0#, you will be asked to select your type of card, and the pin of the card in order for it to be blocked
How do I block my first bank account?
Answer – Once you block your atm card, your account is automatically blocked. You can also send BLOCK to 30012
Can I temporarily block my debit card?
Answer – Yes, you can block your FirstBank debit card temporarily if you notice or suspect any unauthorized transactions.
Why is ATM blocked?
Answer – If you enter the wrong pin three times, your atm card will be blocked instantly.
Final Note
This article has provided you with all you need to know on how to block the Firstbank atm cards which can be through SMS, USSD code, Firstbank mobile app, customer care, or visiting the Firstbank branch.
These ways work all around the clock, either during the banking hour or not.
The moment you discover your atm card is stolen or any unauthorized transactions happening on your account, do not hesitate in blocking your atm card immediately.
