How to Block Your FirstBank ATM Card
ATM cards are now an important part of digital banking because they make it easy and quick to do financial transactions. You can use your ATM card to get cash, buy things, pay for services, and send money. But if you lose your ATM card or have it stolen, your bank account could be in big trouble.
If you have an ATM card from First Bank of Nigeria, it’s vital to know how to disable it right away if you lose it, have it stolen, or see something suspicious. Blocking your card makes sure that no one can use it to take money out or do transactions that aren’t allowed.
FirstBank makes it easy to block your ATM card right away, which is a good thing. These include the USSD banking code, the mobile banking app, SMS, customer service, and going to a bank branch.
This complete guide tells you step-by-step how to block a FirstBank ATM card, the many ways to do it, what happens when you block your card, and key safety guidelines to keep your bank account safe.
What Is a FirstBank ATM Card?
A FirstBank ATM card, which is often termed a debit card, is a payment card that lets First Bank users access their bank accounts online.
You can do the following with a FirstBank ATM card:
- Get cash from ATMs
- Use POS machines to make payments.
- Buy things online
- Move money
- Pay your bills
- If enabled, do business with other countries.
These features make banking easier, but they also mean that someone might get to your money if they get your card. This is why it’s incredibly vital to know how to instantly ban your ATM card.
Why You Should Block Your FirstBank ATM Card Immediately
Blocking your ATM card is a way to keep others from using it without your permission. If your card is lost or compromised, delaying action could result in financial loss.
Here are some common instances in which you should know how to Block Your FirstBank ATM Card right away.
1. ATM Card Gone
People can lose their ATM cards at home, at an ATM, or when traveling. It is safest to block your card right away if you can’t find it.
2. ATM Card That Was Stolen
If your wallet or purse containing your ATM card gets stolen, fraudsters may attempt to withdraw money or make payments using the card.
3. Unauthorized Transactions
If you notice debit alerts for transactions you did not make, your ATM card may have been compromised.
4. Skimming ATM Cards
Card skimming is a type of fraud where criminals use devices to copy ATM card details during transactions.
5. Card Details Compromise
If you mistakenly share your card details (card number, CVV, expiry date, or PIN), someone could use them to perform online transactions.
Blocking your ATM card right away keeps your money safe and stops anyone else from getting to it.
Fastest Ways to Block Your FirstBank ATM Card
FirstBank gives you a number of easy ways to block your ATM card right away. You can pick the method that works best for you based on your needs.
The main ways are:
- Code for USSD
- First mobile banking app
- Code to block in an emergency
- Text Message
- Taking care of customers
- Going to a bank branch
Let’s talk about each method in detail.
How to Block FirstBank ATM Card Using USSD Code
The USSD banking code is the quickest and most common way to block your FirstBank ATM card.
You don’t need to be connected to the internet for this method to operate on any mobile phone.
How to Block Your ATM Card using USSD
- Call the number that is linked to your FirstBank account and dial *894#.
- Choose Quick Banking from the list.
- Pick Next Page.
- Choose Card Control.
- Pick the Block Card option.
- Type in your 5-digit USSD banking PIN.
- Confirm the request.
Your ATM card will be disabled right away as you finish.
Advantages of Using USSD Code
- No internet needed
- Quick & easy
- Open all the time
- Works with both basic and smartphones
For a lot of consumers, this is the quickest way to stop their FirstBank ATM card.
Method 2: How to Block FirstBank ATM Card Using the FirstMobile App
The First Mobile banking app is another good technique to block your ATM card.
Customers can use the app to manage their accounts, send money, pay bills, and control their debit cards.
How to Block Your Card Using the Mobile App
- On your phone, open the FirstMobile App.
- Enter your username and password to log in.
- Go to the section for cards.
- Choose the ATM card you want to prohibit.
- Click on Block Card.
- Use your fingerprint or PIN to confirm the action.
- Your card will be blocked right away.
Benefits of Using the App on Your Phone
- Simple card management
- Safe login
- You can unblock the card later.
- Keep an eye on transactions as they happen
Method 3: Block FirstBank ATM Card Using Emergency Code
If your phone has been stolen or you are unable to access your bank account, FirstBank offers an emergency blocking code.
Emergency Blocking Code
Dial: *894*911# on your phone.
To block your account or ATM card, follow the guidelines below.
This code allows you to block your account even if you’re using a different phone number.
Method 4: Block FirstBank ATM Card Through SMS
Some clients may opt to ban their ATM card using SMS.
Steps to Block a Card by SMS
Open your phone’s messaging app.
Type this message: BLOCK send it to 30012. Send the SMS from the phone number associated with your bank account for speedier processing.
Method 5: Block FirstBank ATM Card via Customer Care
You can also call FirstBank customer service to stop your ATM card from working.
Customer service reps are taught how to swiftly help consumers fix security problems.
Numbers for FirstBank Customer Care
0700-FIRSTCONTACT (0700-34778-2668228) +234 708 062 5000 +234 1 448 5500
When you call, the representative will ask you to prove who you are before they ban the card.
You can also email to: firstcontact@firstbanknigeria.com
Method 6: Block Your ATM Card by Visiting a FirstBank Branch
If none of those work, you can go to any FirstBank branch near you. Here’s what you need to do:
Go to the customer service desk at the nearest FirstBank branch. Tell them you want to block your ATM card. Show them your ID and make a request to block the card. Bank employees will immediately block your card and help you get a new one.
What Happens After You Block Your FirstBank ATM Card?
A lot of people are scared about what will happen if they block their ATM card. There is good news: stopping your card won’t hurt your bank account, only the card.
This is what happens after you hide your card.
1. Transactions at ATMs are blocked
If your card is banned, you can’t use it to get cash from an ATM.
2. Payments at the POS stop
At POS machines, your card will no longer work.
3. You can’t make payments online
You can’t use the card to shop online or sign up for services.
4. You can still use your bank account
Your bank account is still open, and you can still get to it by:
- Banking on the go
- You can bank online
- Bank branch
How to Request a Replacement FirstBank ATM Card
You should get a new ATM card if you lose or have your old one stolen.
How to Get a New Card
- Go to a FirstBank branch.
- Get a form to replace your ATM card.
- Show a genuine ID.
- Pay the cost to get a new one.
- Wait for the card to be sent.
Most branches send out new ATM cards within 24 to 72 hours.
Can You Unblock a FirstBank ATM Card?
Yes, it is sometimes possible to unlock your ATM card.
For instance, suppose you disabled your card for a short time because you lost it and then discovered it again.
How to Get Your Card Unblocked
- Dial *894#
- Choose Card Control
- Pick Unblock Card
- Type in your USSD PIN
If your card was stolen or hacked, though, it’s safer to ask for a new one.
Security Tips to Protect Your ATM Card
In today’s world of digital banking, it’s very crucial to keep your ATM card safe. Here are some helpful guidelines for staying safe.
1. Don’t tell anyone your PIN
Don’t tell anyone your ATM PIN, not even bank employees.
2. Don’t Use ATMs That Look Fishy
Always utilise ATMs that are inside banks.
3. Turn on alerts for transactions
SMS alerts let you keep an eye on the transactions on your account.
4. Change your PIN often
Changing your PIN often lowers the risk of fraud.
5. Cover the keypad when you type in your PIN.
This keeps people from viewing your PIN while you’re doing business.
6. Check your bank account often
Check your bank statement or mobile banking app often.
Common ATM Card Fraud in Nigeria
Knowing how thieves often use ATM cards can help you keep your money safe.
1. Skimming ATMs
People who commit fraud attach gadgets to ATMs to get card information.
2. Phishing
Criminals send bogus texts that look like they come from banks.
3. Surfing on your shoulder
Someone is watching you type in your ATM PIN.
4. Trapping a Card
Thieves put your card in an ATM and then steal it.
If you think any of these things are happening, block your card right away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the code to block a FirstBank ATM card?
To disable your FirstBank ATM card, dial:
*894#
Then, select the Card Control option.
Can I block my FirstBank ATM card using another phone?
Yes, you can dial.
*894*911#
From any phone, you can block your account or card.
How long does it take to block your ATM card?
Blocking your ATM card via USSD or mobile banking occurs instantaneously.
Does banning my ATM card result in the closure of my bank account?
No, blocking your ATM card has no effect on your bank account.
Can I still get money after blocking my card?
Yes. Your account remains operational, and you can continue to receive deposits.
Knowing how to disable your ATM card is a vital step toward securing your finances. If your ATM card is lost, stolen, or compromised, act quickly to avoid illegal transactions.
Fortunately, FirstBank offers a variety of ways to instantly restrict your ATM card, including USSD banking, mobile apps, SMS, customer support, and bank branch locations.
Dialling *894# remains the fastest and most convenient alternative for the majority of clients.
Always remember that the sooner you block your card, the greater your chances of avoiding financial damage.
If your ATM card is permanently lost or stolen, visit a FirstBank office to seek a replacement and continue using our safe banking services. You can learn how to check the FirstBank account balance here
