Comprehensive Guide to Blocking Your UBA Account

Safeguarding your bank account is important. UBA, a leading African bank, offers several methods for blocking your account or ATM card in case of loss, theft, or suspicion of fraudulent activity.

This guide delves into the various ways to block your UBA account, providing a clear and in-depth understanding of each method.

Understanding When to Block Your Account

There are several situations where blocking your UBA account may be necessary:

• Lost or Stolen ATM Card: If you lose your ATM card, immediate action is crucial. Blocking the card prevents unauthorized access to your funds.
• Suspected Fraudulent Activity: If you notice unusual transactions on your account statement or suspect someone might be accessing your account without your knowledge, blocking your account is essential to stop further activity.
• Security Concerns: Even if you haven’t experienced any specific issues, some individuals might choose to block their account for added peace of mind while traveling or during periods of inactivity.

Methods for Blocking Your UBA Account/ATM card

UBA offers a variety of convenient options for blocking your account, catering to different preferences and situations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each method:

1. USSD Code Blocking (*919#):

UBA’s USSD service allows you to block your account or ATM card directly from your phone. This method is quick and accessible, particularly useful in situations where you need to act fast.

1. Dial the UBA Bank USSD code *919*9# to freeze your account or *919*10# to block your ATM card.
2. You will be required to provide the phone number you used in registering the Account.
3. Confirm blocking of the USSD code or the account.
4. Enter the USSD 4-digit PIN.

How to Block UBA Bank Account/ATM Card via UBA Bank Mobile

Follow the steps below to block your UBA Bank account/ATM card:

1. Download the UBA Bank mobile app on the Apple Store or Google Play Store and log in to the app. If you have the app already, launch the app and proceed with the next step.
2. Log in to your account using your username and password or biometric authentication.
3. From the home screen, select the “Cards” option.
4. Select the ATM card you want to block.
5. Click on the “Block Card” option.
6. Confirm the action by clicking on “Yes.”
7. If you want to unblock the card later, you can do so by selecting the “Unblock Card” option.

How to Block My UBA Bank ATM Card from Another Phone

To block your UBA Bank ATM Card with another phone, kindly contact these numbers; 01-2808822, 07002255822 with another phone.

Of course, you will be asked some questions and if you are the owner of the account, you will know the answers to them or simply quickly head to the nearest UBA Bank to let them know you have lost your ATM card and you wish to block/deactivate it.

Important Notes:

• Ensure you have sufficient mobile network coverage for a successful USSD transaction.
• Remember your 4-digit USSD PIN for verification purposes.

2. Mobile Banking App:

UBA’s mobile banking app provides a user-friendly interface for managing your account on the go. You can conveniently block your ATM card directly from the app.

• Steps to Block Your ATM Card:
  1. Open the UBA Mobile Banking App on your smartphone or tablet.
  2. Log in using your credentials.
  3. Navigate to the “Cards” section.
  4. Select the ATM card you want to block.
  5. Choose the option to “Block Card.”
  6. Confirm the blocking request.

How to Block UBA Bank Account/ATM Card via Customer Support

Another quick and easy way to block your UBA Bank account is by calling customer care. To do this, follow the steps below:

1. Open the call app on your smartphone
2. Simply dial the UBA Bank customer care lines: 01-2808822, 07002255822. These lines are always available 24/7.
3. You will need to provide your account number, card number, and other relevant information to verify your identity.

How to Block UBA Bank Account/ATM Card via Internet Banking

To block your UBA Bank ATM card using Internet banking, please follow these steps:

1. Go to the UBA Bank website and log in to your account using your username and password.
2. From the dashboard, select the “Cards” option.
3. Choose the ATM card you want to block.
4. Click on the “Block Card” option.
5. Confirm the action by entering your internet banking PIN or password.
6. If you want to unblock the card later, you can do so by selecting the “Unblock Card” option.

Important Notes:

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection for using the mobile banking app.
• Keep the UBA Mobile Banking App updated to the latest version for optimal functionality.

3. Contacting UBA Customer Care:

If you’re unable to use USSD or the mobile app, or prefer personalized assistance, contacting UBA customer care is an excellent option. UBA offers 24/7 customer support, allowing you to block your account anytime.

• Steps to Block Your Account:
  1. Dial UBA’s customer care hotline:
     • 01-2808822
     • 07002255822 (toll-free)
  2. Follow the prompts to connect with a customer service representative.
  3. Explain your request to block your account or ATM card.
  4. Provide the representative with your account details for verification purposes.
  5. Follow their instructions to complete the blocking process.

Important Notes:

• Have your account number and other relevant details readily available.
• Be prepared to answer security questions to verify your identity.

4. Visiting a UBA Branch:

While less convenient than the aforementioned methods, visiting a UBA branch allows for face-to-face interaction with a bank representative.

• Steps to Block Your Account:
  1. Locate your nearest UBA branch using the branch locator on UBA’s website (https://www.ubagroup.com/nigeria/help/uba-branches/).
  2. Visit the branch during their operating hours.
  3. Inform a customer service representative of your request to

block your account or ATM card. 4. Provide the representative with valid identification and your account details. 5. The representative will assist you in completing the blocking process.

Important Notes:

• Carry a valid government-issued ID for verification purposes.
• Be prepared for potential waiting times depending on branch traffic.

Additional Considerations After Blocking Your Account

• Unblocking Your Account: Once the situation is resolved (e.g., lost card retrieved, fraudulent activity stopped), you can unblock your account using the same method you used for blocking. UBA might require additional verification steps for unblocking.
• Reporting Lost/Stolen Cards: Even if you block your card using USSD or the mobile app, it’s crucial to report the loss or theft to UBA officially. This helps them investigate the incident and potentially recover your card. You can report a lost/stolen card by calling customer care or visiting a branch.
• Replacing Your ATM Card: After blocking a lost or stolen card, you’ll need to request a replacement card from UBA. This can be done through the mobile app, by contacting customer care, or by visiting a branch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What if I forget my USSD PIN? You can reset your USSD PIN by dialing 91900# and following the prompts.
• Can I block someone else’s UBA account? No, for security reasons, you can only block your own UBA account or cards linked to your account.
• Are there any charges for blocking my account? UBA typically doesn’t charge fees for blocking your account or ATM card. However, it’s advisable to confirm any potential charges with UBA directly to avoid any surprises.
• How long does it take to block my account? Blocking your account or card through USSD or the mobile app is usually instantaneous. When contacting customer care or visiting a branch, processing times might vary depending on verification procedures.

Conclusion

By understanding the various methods for blocking your UBA account and the situations where it might be necessary, you can effectively safeguard your finances. Remember, acting quickly in case of lost cards or suspected fraudulent activity is crucial to minimize potential losses. UBA’s diverse blocking options cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring you have the tools necessary to secure your account.

I hope this comprehensive guide empowers you to manage your UBA account securely!