How to Block and Unblock Debit Cards?

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When you suspect fraudulent activity in your bank account or lose your debit card, it is best to block it. This will ensure your bank account and money are safe from fraudsters. Banks have introduced many ways to block and unblock your debit card. Read on to find out the different ways through which you can block and unblock ATM card.

Why Blocking a Debit Card is Necessary?

Blocking a debit card becomes necessary in the following situations.

Stolen card: If someone steals your wallet, which has all your debit and credit cards, then you must immediately block your card to prevent its misuse.
Misplaced card: If you misplaced your debit card and can’t find it, then it is best to block it. Even if you find it later, you can always unblock it or get a new card reissued.
Unauthorised payments: If you find an unfamiliar transaction on your debit card which you didn’t initiate, then your debit card details could be compromised. In such cases, you must immediately block your debit card without delay.
Failed attempts of card usage: If you receive messages of failed attempts to withdraw cash at an ATM, which you did not initiate, then your debit card is in the wrong hands. You must immediately block your card.

Different Ways of Blocking a Debit Card

The following are the different ways through which you can block a debit card.

Block Debit Card Through Net Banking

To block the card through net banking, follow the steps below.

Go to your bank’s official website and log into your account using your credentials.
In the ‘My Cards’ section, go to ‘Service Request’ or ‘Card Management’ or ‘Card Settings’.
Select the ‘Block Card’ option to block your card.
Some banks ask you to enter all the card details and verify through an OTP to block the card.
Some banks also allow you to freeze your card instead of blocking it.

Block Debit Card Through SMS

Blocking your debit card through SMS is one of the easiest methods. The following steps will guide you in blocking your card through SMS.

Send a message in a specified format to your bank to a specified number from your registered mobile number. The format is usually “Block Debit Card<last four digits of the card>.
Once you send the SMS, the card is blocked immediately, and an SMS confirmation is sent to your registered mobile number.

Block Debit Card Through Mobile Banking Application

Blocking your debit card through a mobile banking application is similar to net banking. The following steps will guide you to block your debit card through a mobile banking application.

Log in to your mobile banking app.
Go to your profile and select ‘My Cards’.
Then select the card you want to block, and you will find the block option in the settings tab.
Click on block, enter the card details and OTP for verification to block your card.

Block Debit Card Through Customer Care

Every bank has a customer care service that helps customers with their queries and problems. You can find your customer care executive’s number on your bank’s website. The following steps will guide you to block your debit card through customer care.

Call the bank’s customer care helpline number. It is usually toll-free and hence not chargeable.
The bank usually lists out a set of services through IVR (Interactive Voice Response).
Select the card services option and block the card by following the instructions.
You will have to provide some details through IVR, after which an executive will talk to you to verify your identity and block your card.
A confirmation of the same will be sent to you through SMS.

Block Debit Card Through Branch

If you aren’t comfortable with online methods, you can visit the bank’s branch to block your card. The following steps will guide you to do the same.

Visit the nearest branch of your bank.
Talk to the executive about blocking your card. They will provide you with an application, which must be filled out and duly signed.
Submit the application with the necessary proof, and the bank will immediately process your request.
You will receive a confirmation of the same through SMS within a few hours.

Block Debit Card Through Automated Reporting System

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) instructed banks to send transaction alerts to customers through mobile and email. At the end of this email, a number is given through which you can block your debit card. The following steps will guide you to block your card through an automated reporting system.

When you find any fraudulent activity in your bank account and receive an SMS regarding money debited from your account, you can report it to the number given at the end of the email.
All you have to do is forward the SMS or email alert you receive to this number, and the card will be blocked immediately.
This method is only effective after a fraudulent transaction has been done on your card. In case of a lost or stolen card, you cannot use this method.

Automatic Blocking

Sometimes, the bank blocks your debit card automatically in certain cases. The following are some of the common reasons why the bank will block your card automatically.

The bank will block your old ATM card after you activate the new ATM card.
If there is a security breach, then the bank will automatically block your card and reissue a new card.
Whenever the bank suspects fraudulent activity, it will either confirm with the user or block the debit card automatically. For example, if your daily spending pattern is Rs 5,000, and if the card is swiped for an amount higher than Rs 50,000, then it will automatically block the card after confirming the purchase.

Contact numbers, SMS numbers & instructions, and WhatsApp instructions to block debit cards in India

Bank Name	Contact number/ Toll Free number	SMS number and instructions
State Bank of India (SBI)	Toll free number: 1800 1234 Toll free number: 1800 2100 Toll free number: 1800 11 2211 Toll free number: 1800 425 3800 Toll number: 080-26599990	Send ‘BLOCK<space>XXXX’ to 567676 from your registered mobile number. Here, XXXX is the last 4-digits of your card number Example: Send message → ‘BLOCK 4321’ to 567676 from the phone number you have registered your bank account
Axis Bank	Retail phone banking numbers: – 1860 419 5555– 1860 500 5555Toll free number:– 1800 103 5577	Send ‘BLOCKCARD’ to 56161600 or +919951860002 from your registered mobile number. Example: Send message → ‘BLOCKCARD’ to 56161600 or +919951860002 from the phone number you have registered your bank account
AU Small Finance Bank	1800 1200 1200 (Toll free numbers) 1800 26 66677 (Toll free numbers) 1860 1200 1200 (Non-Toll free numbers) 0141 – 7141000 (Non-Toll free numbers) 0141 – 6133000 (Non-Toll free numbers) 0141 – 3071800 (Non-Toll free numbers)	They don’t have an SMS number. You can block/unblock via WhatsApp. Here’s the link for AU Small Finance Bank WhatsApp
Bank of Baroda	Toll free number: 1800 5700	Steps to block your debit card through WhatsApp banking : Step-1: Save bank’s WhatsApp business mobile number 8433888777 Step-2: Open WhatsApp chat with the bank’s WhatsApp business mobile number and send “HI” to get list of services. Step-3: Select block debit card option. Step-4: Now, select card number for blocking. Step-5: Click confirm to block card. Step-6: Card blocked successfully.
Canara Bank	Toll Free no.: 18001030	Block Canara Bank debit card or ATM card by sending an SMS. Step 1: Type a message in this format- “CAN<space>HOTLISTCD<space>16-digit card number”. Step 2: Send this message to 5607060 using your registered phone number. Example: Send message → ‘CAN HOTLISTCD 4150 0000 1111 2222’ to 5607060 from the phone number you have registered with your bank account.
Citi Bank	Toll free: 1800 267 2425 Local number: +91 22 4955 2425 +91 44 6698 2136	No SMS number or instructions available
Federal Bank	Toll Free nos.: 1800- 425 -1199 1800-420-1199	SMS: Send the message ‘BLOCK<space>Last Four Digits of the Debit Card’ to the numbers 5676762 OR 919895088888. Example: Send message → ‘BLOCK 4321’ to 5676762 OR +91 9895088888 from the phone number you have registered with your bank account.
HDFC Bank	1800 202 6161 1860 267 6161	SMS “Block Debit Card <last 4 digits of your Debit Card number> ” on 7308080808 from your registered mobile number. Example: Send message → ‘Block Debit Card 4321’ to +91 7308080808 from the phone number you have registered with your bank account.
ICICI Bank	Customer Care number: 1800 1080 Backup customer care no.: 1860 120 7777	No SMS number or instructions available
IndusInd Bank	18602677777	SMS ‘LOST DDMMYYYY’ to 9223512966 from your registered mobile number, where DDMMYYYY is your Date of Birth Example: Send message → ‘LOST 13021990’ to 9223512966 from the phone number you have registered with your bank account.
IDFC First Bank	Toll Free no.: 1800 10 888	Block Debit Card through SMS by sending SMS BLOCK (last 4 digits of card) to 5676732 Example: Send message → ‘BLOCK 4321’ to 5676732 from the phone number you have registered with your bank account.
Janakalyan Bank	Toll Free number: 1800 22 5381	For blocking the Card, please send SMS ‘BLOCK’ to 70659 66665 Example: Send message → ‘BLOCK 4321’ to 70659 66665 from the phone number you have registered with your bank account.
J & K Bank	Toll Free: 1800 890 2122 0194-2482463 0194-2486424	No instructions or SMS number available.
Kotak Bank	1860 266 2666	SMS DCBLOCK XXXX (last 4 digits your Kotak Debit Card number) to 5676788
Punjab National Bank (PNB)	Toll Free: 0120-2490000	SMS ‘HOT Card number’ to 5607040 Example: Send message → HOT 4150 1111 3333 4444’ to 5607040 from the phone number you have registered with your bank account.Block Debit Card on WhatsApp → Send ‘Hi’ to 92640-92640 → Select “All Services”→ Select “Debit Card Services”→ Select “Disable/Block Debit Card”→ Select Debit card number to disable (temporary block) or Block (permanent block) →Select “Temporary block or Permanent block” option

Different Ways of Unblocking a Debit Card

Once you block your debit card, many banks allow you to unblock it, too. The following are the different ways to unblock your debit card.

Unblock Debit Card Through SMS

To unblock your debit card through SMS, first check whether your bank has this service. If it does, then follow the steps below to unblock your debit card.

Check your bank’s SMS format to unblock a card.
Send the message to the designated number from your registered mobile number. You might have to include details of the card, such as the last four digits and other details, including why the card has been blocked.
You may receive an SMS with a confirmation code or link to confirm the blocking. Do the needful to unblock your card.
Once the bank verifies, your card will be unblocked, and the same will be communicated to you through SMS.

Unblock Debit Card Offline

You can visit your bank’s branch to unblock your debit card. The following steps will guide you through the process.

Visit the nearest bank branch and talk to an executive.
You will have to submit an application form, a written letter stating the reason for blocking it in the first place, and submit certain proofs.
Once the bank verifies the documents you submit, your card will be unblocked.

Unblock Debit Card Online

You can also unblock your debit card online. To do so, follow the steps below.

Login to your net banking or mobile banking application.
Go to the ‘My Cards’ section and select the card that needs to be unblocked.
You will find steps to unblock your card. Follow them to unblock the card within no time.

Unlock Debit Card Through Customer Care

You can always call the bank to unblock your card if you don’t find any other method convenient. The following steps will guide you through the same.

Call your bank’s customer care number from your registered mobile number.
You may be connected to the bank’s IVR, follow the instructions and select the option where you can talk to the customer service executive.
They will ask you for some details to verify your identity and provide the same to confirm your identity.
Within no time, the bank will unblock your debit card so you can use it for your transactions.

Unblock Debit Card Automatically

The bank automatically blocks your debit card when you enter the wrong credentials, such as the wrong PIN or CVV, three times in a row. However, this is a temporary block, and the bank automatically unblocks it after 24 hours.

How to Reissue Debit Card?

Sometimes, blocking your card isn’t enough when you lose it or you identify fraudulent activity. It is better to reissue a new card instead of unblocking it. The following steps will guide you in reissuing a new debit card.

Offline method

Visit the nearest branch of your bank and fill out an application form for the reissue of a debit card.

The bank will charge a minimal fee to reissue a new debit card; pay it, and you will receive a new debit card at your registered address in 10 working days.

Online method

To reissue a new debit card, you can visit your bank’s online portal and follow the steps below.

Login to your account through net banking or mobile application.
Go to the ‘My Cards’ section and apply for a new card.
The bank will verify your identity through OTP.
Once verification is done, you will have to pay the reissue fee, and the bank will dispatch a new card to your registered address within ten working days.

How to Avoid Blocking Debit Card?

Although blocking and unblocking your debit card is easy, it is best to be careful when using your debit card online or offline, which can help you avoid blocking your card. Following are some of the tips you can follow to avoid blocking your debit card.

Memorise your ATM PIN, and do not write it down anywhere.
Do not share your PIN with family or friends.
Keep checking your account statement regularly. If you find any suspicious activity, notify your bank immediately.
Make sure your mobile number and address are updated with the bank at all times.
If you plan to use the card outside of the country or city, inform your bank so they don’t mistake it as fraudulent activity and block your card.
Keep your card active by using it at least once a month.
Keep your card safe to ensure there is no damage.
Do not exceed your spending limits.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi when doing transactions.
Shop from only trusted websites.

Conclusion

Banks have introduced multiple ways to block and unblock your debit card. Check with your bank on how to block and unblock your debit card through different methods. While blocking and unblocking your debit card has become easier than before, make sure you use your card carefully to avoid blocking it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you unblock your debit card?

You can unblock your debit card by visiting the bank physically and submitting an application. Alternatively, you can call the customer care executive or use the internet or mobile banking app to unblock it offline. You can also unblock through SMS if your bank allows it.

How do I block my debit card on my phone?

You can block your debit card by sending an SMS to the designated helpline number. The SMS must be in a specific format prescribed by the bank. You can also log in to your mobile application or call the customer service executive to block your debit card.

How can I withdraw money from my ATM card if it’s blocked?

You cannot withdraw money from your ATM card if it is blocked. You must first get the card unblocked to use it for ATM or online transactions.

Can I call my bank to unblock my debit card?

Yes, you can call the bank’s customer care service helpline number to unblock your debit card.

Can I unblock my ATM card online?

Yes, you can unblock your ATM card online by logging into your net banking portal. However, this is only possible if the bank allows you to do so.

Can I unblock my debit card myself?

Yes, you can unblock your debit card yourself through a net banking portal or mobile banking application if your bank allows you to do so.

How long will a debit card be blocked?

If you block the debit card, it will remain blocked until you unblock it. However, if the bank blocks it because you entered an incorrect PIN, then the card will be unblocked in 24 hours.

Can I unblock my card at an ATM?

No, you cannot unblock your debit card at an ATM. You must either visit the bank physically, do it online, or call the bank’s customer care helpline to unblock your ATM or debit card.

Written and Reviewed by:

Priyanka Rao

Author

Priyanka Rao is a content strategist for Jupiter.Money, and specializes in writing on topics related to finance, banking, budgeting, salary & wages, and other financial matters. She has a passion for creating engaging content that resonates with audiences across various digital platforms. In her free time, Priyanka enjoys traveling and reading, which allows her to gain new perspectives and inspiration for her work. With a keen eye for detail and a creative mindset, Priyanka is committed to creating content that connects well with her readers, enhancing their digital experiences.

Colin D'Souza

Financial Content Reviewer

Colin D'Souza is currently the Vice President of Banking Programs and Strategy at Jupiter Money, where he oversees the development and execution of key banking initiatives. With a strong background in retail banking, sales, and strategy, Colin brings extensive experience in driving business growth and enhancing customer engagement across various financial products and services.

Before joining Jupiter, Colin was the Head of Corporate Salary Business at IDFC First Bank, having previously served as the Zonal Business Head for Retail Liabilities & Branch Banking. His leadership at IDFC First Bank focused on expanding the bank’s retail banking footprint and optimizing branch operations. Prior to that, he held senior roles at Citibank India, where he was Vice President and Regional Sales Head, responsible for the sales and distribution of consumer assets and liabilities, including services for high-net-worth individuals (HNI) and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNI), as well as current accounts.

Colin also served as Vice President and Regional Sales Manager at HSBC, leading retail liability acquisitions and driving business development for investment and insurance products. Earlier in his career, he managed a cluster of branches at CitiFinancial, where he was responsible for credit, risk, and P&L management.

He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from the Institute of Management Education and Research (IMER), adding a solid academic foundation to his professional expertise in banking and strategy.