How to Freeze Your Card and What Happens Next
Gain control over your finances. Learn how to temporarily secure your credit or debit card and understand its immediate implications.
Freezing your credit or debit card is a temporary security measure that prevents unauthorized transactions. It places a hold on your card, stopping new purchases and withdrawals. People often freeze cards if they misplace them, suspect fraudulent activity, or to control spending. This reversible action does not permanently disable your account.
Methods to Freeze Your Card
Financial institutions offer several ways to freeze your card. Many banks provide a mobile banking application that enables cardholders to manage their cards directly. To use this method, log into the app, navigate to the card services or security settings, and locate an option labeled “freeze” or “lock” card. You can then toggle a switch to activate the freeze for a specific card.
Online banking portals offer the same functionality as mobile apps. After logging into your bank’s website, find a “manage cards” or “security” section where the freeze option is available. The process involves selecting the card you wish to freeze and confirming the action, which takes effect instantly.
If digital methods are not preferred or accessible, contact customer service by phone. Find your bank’s customer service number on the back of your card, on your monthly statement, or on their official website. A representative can assist you in placing a freeze on your card after verifying your identity.
What Happens After Freezing Your Card?
Once your card is frozen, most new transactions, including purchases, cash advances, and ATM withdrawals, will be declined. This helps prevent unauthorized use. While new transactions are blocked, certain existing recurring payments, such as subscriptions or pre-authorized bills, might still process depending on your card issuer.
A card freeze is temporary and reversible. You can unfreeze your card at any time using your mobile app, online banking portal, or a phone call to customer service. This allows you to quickly reactivate your card once you locate it or confirm its security.
Understand the distinction between freezing a card and reporting it lost or stolen. Freezing is a temporary measure that keeps your existing card number active, providing time to locate a misplaced card. If your card is confirmed lost, stolen, or compromised, reporting it as such is necessary. This action leads to the permanent cancellation of your current card number and the issuance of a new card with a different number to protect your account.