Knowing how to swiftly block your Union Bank account is a critical skill for protecting your finances in an emergency. Whether your phone is stolen, your card is compromised, or you suspect fraudulent activity, acting fast can prevent unauthorized access to your money. Fortunately, Union Bank of Nigeria provides several reliable and immediate methods to secure your account, both online and offline, without necessarily visiting a branch.
Immediate Blocking Methods Using Another Phone
If you lose access to your primary phone, you can still secure your account instantly from any other device. The most effective tool for this is the Union Bank USSD code, which works on all mobile networks without requiring internet data.
The primary USSD code for blocking your account is *826*6#your phone number#. Simply dial this code from any phone, follow the prompts to confirm, and your account will be temporarily restricted from debit transactions. This method is exceptionally useful during crises, as it works even if your SIM card is missing or in a different phone.
How to Block Your Union Bank Account Online
For customers who still have access to their smartphone or computer, digital platforms offer a fast and convenient way to lock an account. The UnionMobile app is a central hub for this. After logging in, navigate to Card & Account Management, select Block Account or Block Card, and confirm the request. The block is applied immediately.
Alternatively, you can use the Union Bank internet banking portal. Log in on the official website, go to Security Settings, and choose the option to block your account or card. Another digital avenue is the official Union Bank WhatsApp number, 09070070001. Start a chat, follow the chatbot's prompts, and select the option to block your ATM or account.
Contacting Customer Care and Other Options
When other methods are not feasible, directly contacting Union Bank's customer service is a sure alternative. The bank's customer care operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can call 07007007000 or +234-02-012716816.
Be ready to provide verification details such as your full name, date of birth, identification number, and the phone number linked to your account. Once verified, the agent can block your account instantly. As a less urgent option, you can send an email to customerservice@unionbankng.com with your account details and reason for blocking. However, this is not recommended for true emergencies due to potential delays.
Unblocking Your Account and Security Tips
Once the threat has passed, you can unblock your Union Bank account. This typically requires identity verification. You can visit any Union Bank branch with a valid ID, call customer care, or use the UnionMobile app if the block was temporary. To keep your account secure, never share your ATM PIN, BVN, or banking passwords. Activate transaction alerts and report any suspicious activity to the bank immediately.
It is important to note that blocking your account restricts all debit and credit transactions until you unblock it. For those who only need to stop a specific card, you can block just the ATM card using the USSD code *826*21# or via the mobile app, leaving other account functions active.