Do Not Panic If Your ATM Card Is Swallowed: Here's How to Handle It
ATM machines can occasionally cause ATM cards to be swallowed. This situation represents a common concern for customers when conducting transactions at ATM machines, whether transferring funds or withdrawing cash. Card swallowing incidents can occur at any time and location.
The causes of card swallowing vary, ranging from damaged cards and technical malfunctions on the machine to user negligence. This situation can be distressing because once a card is swallowed, customers cannot use it for ATM transactions.
However, customers can take several steps to resolve a swallowed card quickly and effectively. Here are the recommended steps:
Record the ATM Machine Number and Location
Note down the ATM machine number and location where your card was swallowed. This information will assist the bank in locating the card.
Check Transaction Status
It is important to review your transaction status through online banking or by contacting the bank to ensure that no unauthorised transactions have been made on your account.
Contact Your Bank and Block Your Card
Contact the bank’s customer service and inform them that your card has been swallowed in the ATM machine. Request that they immediately block the card to prevent unauthorised use.
Visit Your Bank Branch
If you experience difficulty reaching the bank by phone, you can visit the nearest bank branch to block your card. Remember to bring your savings account book, identity card, and any other relevant documents.
Inform the customer service representative that your card was swallowed by the ATM machine. The officer will verify your information first. Subsequently, your card will be temporarily blocked. You can also immediately arrange to obtain a replacement ATM card.
Through a Banking Application
Some banks now offer ATM card blocking functionality through mobile applications. However, you will still need to visit the bank branch to obtain a replacement card.
If the card cannot be retrieved from the ATM machine, the bank will issue a replacement card following the completion of the verification process.