Blocked ATM card? Here are some ways to get it back

There are several reasons for your ATM card to get blocked. Luckily, there is a solution for every situation

An ATM card provides access to several banking services. You can withdraw cash, check your savings and current account balance, and access your account statement. You must only remember your ATM PIN to avail of these services. Your card may be blocked if you enter the wrong PIN multiple times, although there is a solution. Here are different ways your ATM could get blocked and how you can reactivate it.

1. Entering incorrect PIN

Your ATM card might be blocked proactively by your bank if you enter the wrong ATM PIN multiple times. It ensures that your ATM card is not misused if stolen or lost.

Solution: If your ATM card is not stolen and you have erroneously entered the PIN, it will be automatically unblocked in 24 hours. However, if the card stays blocked even after a day, you may contact the bank's customer care. If you are an IDFC FIRST Bank customer, you can easily reach customer care through the IDFC FIRST Bank app.

2. Card expiry

The expiry date mentioned in your ATM card is not used only for authentication. Your ATM card will cease to work once it has reached its expiry date. It is implemented to ensure that you never have an ATM card with outdated technology. For instance, chip cards replaced magnetic stripe cards in recent years. The new technology is more secure and has upgraded features.

Solution: If your card is blocked because it has reached its expiry date, you can expect to receive a new card from the bank soon. It is usually an automatic process, and you need not make any requests. But if you do not receive the new card, you may contact the bank and ask for an update. Alternatively, you could proactively ask the bank when your card is nearing expiry to ensure you are not left with no ATM card for some days.

3. Fraudulent transaction

Banks may block your ATM-cum-debit card if their systems notice fraudulent transactions. It protects your money if anyone has access to your ATM card and its details.

Solution: The solution here depends on the situation. The bank may call you right after your card is blocked. If it is not a fraudulent transaction, you may tell your bank that your card will instantly get unblocked.

Meanwhile, if you do not identify the transaction, the bank may ask you to contact the police and file an FIR to take things forward. In the meantime, the bank may permanently block your ATM card and issue a new one.

Blocked transaction type

Sometimes, your card may be blocked for certain types of transactions. For instance, banks will have international transactions blocked on your card by default to avoid frauds and scams. You may unblock it using the net or mobile banking. Follow these steps to do so.

• Log in to your bank's mobile or internet banking portal.
• Go to the cards control section. It may be different for different banks. You may call your bank's customer care if you find it confusing.
• Select the card and unblock the type of transaction you want. You may also set limits for each kind of transaction. Alternately, you could contact the bank directly and take their help.
  

Banks take proactive steps and block your ATM card on occasions to help protect your money. Ensure you do your part by never sharing ATM card information with anyone, including the bank officials.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.