How To Block Access Bank Account and ATM Card

When Should You Block Your Access Bank Account or ATM Card?

I understand that if you’re here, you likely already have a specific reason for wanting to block your Access Bank account or ATM card. After all, only you know the circumstances surrounding your decision, and I’m not here to influence that choice. However, for those who might still be unsure or unaware, there are certain situations where blocking your account or card becomes absolutely necessary.

For instance:

• Loss or Theft of Your ATM Card: If your card is missing or stolen, blocking it immediately can prevent unauthorized transactions.
• Suspicious Transactions or Unauthorized Access: If you notice activities in your account that you didn’t authorize, taking quick action by blocking your account can save your funds from further exploitation.
• Misplaced Wallet or Account Details in Unsafe Hands: If your wallet or confidential banking information ends up in the wrong hands, it’s better to block access while resolving the situation.
• Stolen Identity: In cases of identity theft, securing your account by blocking it can help minimize damage.

How To Block Access Bank Account

Here are the the following methods on how to block access bank account

• Visiting the Nearest Access Bank Branch
• Calling Access Bank Customer Care
• Via the Access Bank Mobile App
• Using USSD Code

How To Block Access Bank Account by Visiting the Nearest Access Bank Branch

• Locate the nearest Access Bank branch in your area using the Access Bank website or mobile app.
• Carry a valid means of identification (e.g., National ID, Voter’s Card, Driver’s License, or International Passport).
• Inform the customer service representative that you want to block your account.
• Provide your account details, such as your account number and registered phone number.
• Answer security questions to confirm your identity.
• Request confirmation of the successful block before leaving the branch.

How To Block Access Bank Account by Calling Access Bank Customer Care

• Dial the Access Bank customer care hotline at 0700 2255 2273 (0700 CALL ACCESS) or the emergency line at +234 1-2712005.
• Select the appropriate option to speak with a customer care representative.
• Inform them you want to block your account and provide your account number and personal details.
• Answer security questions to verify your identity.
• Request confirmation of the block via SMS or email.

How To Block Access Bank Account Via the Access Bank Mobile App

• Download and install the Access Bank mobile app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store if you haven’t already.
• Log in using your registered phone number, email, or username and password.
• Navigate to the “Self-Service” or “Help & Support” section of the app.
• Select “Block Account” from the available options.
• Confirm the block by entering your security PIN or password.
• Check for a notification or message confirming your account has been successfully blocked.

How To Block Access Bank Account Using USSD Code

• Dial *901*911# from your registered phone number.
• Select the option for “Block Account” from the menu.
• Follow the prompts to enter your account number and provide additional details if required.
• Confirm the action and ensure you receive a notification or SMS confirming the account block.

Does The Above Methods Works For Blocking ATM Card?

Some of the methods above can also be used to block your Access Bank ATM card, but there are specific instructions for ATM card blocking. Here’s how each method works:

How To Block Access Bank ATM Card by Visiting the Nearest Access Bank Branch

Yes, this method works for blocking your ATM card.

• Visit the nearest Access Bank branch.
• Carry a valid means of identification and provide your account and card details.
• Inform the customer service representative that you want to block your ATM card.
• Answer security questions to verify your identity.
• Request confirmation of the card block before leaving.

How To Block Access Bank ATM Card by Calling Access Bank Customer Care

Yes, this method works for blocking your ATM card.

• Call Access Bank customer care at 0700 2255 2273 (0700 CALL ACCESS) or +234 1-2712005.
• Inform them you want to block your ATM card.
• Provide your card details (e.g., card number) and verify your identity by answering security questions.
• Request confirmation that your card has been successfully blocked.

How To Block Access Bank ATM Card Via the Access Bank Mobile App

Yes, this method works for blocking your ATM card.

• Log in to the Access Bank mobile app.
• Navigate to the “Cards” or “Card Management” section.
• Select the specific card you want to block.
• Choose the “Block Card” option.
• Confirm the action by entering your security PIN or password.
• Check for a notification confirming the block.

Can You Block Access Bank ATM Card by Using USSD Code

No, the USSD code provided above (*901*911#) is specifically for blocking your account, not your ATM card.

• To block an ATM card using USSD, you may need to contact customer care or use the app, as there’s no dedicated USSD code specifically for card blocking in Access Bank’s services.

What to Do After Blocking Your Account or ATM Card

Blocking your Access Bank account or ATM card is a crucial first step in securing your funds, but there are additional actions you should take to ensure your finances remain safe and accessible. Here are some key steps to follow:

1. Report the Issue to Access Bank Immediately

• If you blocked your account or card due to theft, loss, or unauthorized transactions, inform Access Bank customer care or visit a branch to formally report the issue.
• Provide detailed information about the incident to help the bank investigate and take further action.

2. Request a Replacement ATM Card

• Visit the nearest Access Bank branch to apply for a new ATM card.
• Bring a valid means of identification and proof of ownership of the account.
• Be prepared to pay a small fee for card replacement (if applicable).
• Your new card will typically be issued within a few days, and you can set a new PIN upon activation.

3. Monitor Your Account Activity

• Keep an eye on your account transactions through the Access Bank mobile app, online banking, or SMS alerts.
• Report any suspicious transactions immediately to the bank.

4. Update Your Contact Details

• Ensure your phone number, email address, and other contact details are up-to-date with the bank. This ensures you receive important notifications and alerts promptly.

5. Consider Enabling Extra Security Measures

• Activate transaction notifications via SMS or email to stay informed about account activity in real-time.
• Set transaction limits on your account to minimize potential losses in case of unauthorized access.
• Enable biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition) for mobile banking if supported.

6. Educate Yourself on Fraud Prevention

• Avoid sharing your banking details, such as account numbers, PINs, or passwords, with anyone.
• Be cautious of phishing scams, fake calls, and fraudulent messages claiming to be from the bank.
• Only use official Access Bank communication channels for inquiries and support.

7. Plan for Long-Term Financial Safety

• Regularly update your passwords and security codes for online and mobile banking.
• Secure your devices with strong passwords and avoid using public Wi-Fi for financial transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions On How To Block Access Bank Account and ATM Card 

How Can I Block My Access Bank Account From Another Phone?

If you do not have access to your registered phone number, you can still block your Access Bank account using alternative methods:

• Customer Care: Call Access Bank’s customer care at 0700 2255 2273 or +234 1-2712005 from any phone. Explain your situation and provide your account details for verification.
• Mobile App: If you have the Access Bank mobile app installed on the new phone, log in and navigate to the “Self-Service” or “Help & Support” section to block your account.

How Can I Block My Access Bank Account Without USSD Code?

If you cannot use the USSD code, there are alternative methods to block your account:

• Access Bank Mobile App: Log in to the app and select the option to block your account in the “Self-Service” section.
• Customer Care: Call Access Bank’s customer service to request an account block.
• Visit a Branch: Go to the nearest Access Bank branch with valid identification and request an account block.
  These methods are effective and don’t require the use of a USSD code.

How Do I Temporarily Block My Bank Account?

Temporarily blocking your account, also known as account freezing, can prevent unauthorized debit transactions without permanently closing your account. Here’s how:

• Using the Mobile App: Log in to the Access Bank app, navigate to the account settings or self-service section, and select the “Freeze Account” option.
• Contacting Customer Care: Call Access Bank customer service and request a temporary freeze on your account.
• Reasons to Freeze Your Account: Freezing your account can be helpful in situations like suspected fraud, loss of an ATM card, or unauthorized transactions. It ensures no debit transactions can be processed while still allowing credit transactions like deposits.

Can I Block My BVN and Get a New One?

No, you cannot block your BVN (Bank Verification Number) or get a new one. The BVN is a unique identifier linked to all your bank accounts in Nigeria and is designed to remain unchanged throughout your lifetime.

• What You Can Do Instead: If your BVN is compromised, contact your bank(s) to secure all linked accounts. Banks may implement additional security measures to protect your accounts without changing the BVN.
• Why You Cannot Change BVN: The BVN system is centralized across all banks to prevent identity fraud, so issuing a new BVN would conflict with its purpose.

Conclusions On How To Block Access Bank Account 

Thank you for taking the time to read this guide on how to block Access Bank account and ATM Card. Acting quickly to block your account or card in cases of theft, loss, or unauthorized transactions is essential to protecting your funds and personal information. Prompt action can save you from potential financial loss and stress.

I encourage you to take advantage of the digital methods provided, such as the Access Bank mobile app or USSD code, for faster and more convenient resolutions. These methods ensure immediate action, even in emergencies.

If you found this guide helpful, please share it with your friends, family, or anyone who might benefit from learning how to secure their Access Bank account or ATM card. Your feedback matters, so feel free to leave a comment below, ask questions, or share your experiences.

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