Losing your phone is enough pain, but the fear that someone could gain access to your bank account is another level of panic.
In the digital age, a missing phone isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a security emergency. Follow these steps to secure your data before it’s too late.
1. Stay Calm, Then Move Fast
First of all, calm down and breathe. Yes, it’s frustrating. I know it’s scary. But the worst thing you can do is freeze. You need to act immediately. Think of your stolen phone as a stolen wallet; every second counts.
2. Call Your Bank(s) and Request a Temporary Lock
Don’t waste time. Call your bank’s customer care and request that they temporarily block all mobile access and transactions from your account. Some banks even allow you to lock your account straight from their USSD or online platform.
For example, GTBank users can dial 73751*74# to turn off their USSD profile.
Access Bank users can dial 901*911# and follow the prompt.
Other banks usually have similar quick codes. If unsure, Google your bank name + “USSD block stolen phone.”
Ask the customer care rep to:
Block all mobile transactions.
Turn off the app login temporarily.
Deactivate your phone number if it’s the registered number.
This one move can stop thieves from transferring a dime.
3. Block Your Phone Number Immediately
This is also as important as blocking your account. Most banking apps rely on your SIM card for OTPs and transaction verification. Call your telecom provider and block your SIM right away.
You can also walk into the nearest service center to swap SIMs. That way, you get your number back on a new SIM, but the stolen one becomes useless.
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