4 Ways on how to unblock SBI debit or ATM card

4 Ways on how to unblock SBI debit or ATM card

Unblocking the SBI Debit/ATM means restoring its functionality after it was blocked temporarily because of suspicious activity, wrong PIN and security issues. Once the card is unblocked, you can use it to take out funds and even make all transactions. 

Unblock SBI debit card provide access to funds and allow making payments and purchases effectively. It also help restore financial flexibility, specifically during emergencies.

The SBI debit card is also unblocked using SBI internet banking, YONO App, SMS and customer care which requires you to follow certain steps.

The option to unblock SBI debit card is also available through email but it usually takes more time compared to other available options including internet banking, yono app, SMS and calling customer care.

Read on to learn more about the ways to unblock SBI debit card using internet banking, YONO App, SMS and customer care.

Why do SBI debit cards get blocked?

The SBI debit cards get blocked due to use incorrect PIN more than 3 times, suspicious or fraud activity or when you intentionally block the card when it is lost or stolen.

The reasons for SBI debit cards blocking are listed below.

  1. Debit/ATM Card Block Because of Incorrect PIN: The SBI ATM/Debit Cards get blocked when you enter an incorrect ATM more than three times. This happens when the bank assumes your card is lost or stolen or someone else is trying to guess the ATM PIN to steal all the funds. The ATM card will get blocked automatically for 24 hours, but the process might be the same for every branch, city or state. The best way to find out about it is by visiting the bank branch or speaking with the SBI team.
  2. Debit/ATM Card Blocked by the Bank: On certain occasions, SBI might block the debit or ATM card because of fraud, suspicious activity or when someone tries to crack the PIN of your card. The bank does so to keep your account safe and prevent your funds from getting stolen.
  3. Permanent Blocking of the Debit/ATM Card: SBI blocks the ATM/Debit Card for different purposes, and the card cannot be unlocked by itself. Permanent blocking of the card can also occur when you intentionally block the card if it gets stolen or you lose it.

What are the methods to unblock SBI debit/ATM Cards?

A picture of SBI debit cards and methods to unblock them.

The methods to unblock SBI debit or ATM cards include using SBI net banking, YONO App and SMS or visiting SBI bank. The methods are listed below.

  • Use SBI net banking
  • Use SBI YONO App
  • Send SMS
  • Customer Helpline Number

1. How to Unblock SBI ATM/Debit Card Using SBI Net Banking?

To unblock the SBI ATM/debit card through net banking follow the below listed steps.

  • Open https://www.onlinesbi.sbi/ on you browser.
  • Login using your username and password.
  • Go to the “Menu” tab.
  • Choose the “e-Services” option and then press “ATM Card Management.”
  • Under “Task” menu, you will get options to unblock or block the SBI debit cards, set the limit for ATM cards, etc.
  • Make the changes you want to under this section.

This method is extremely useful as you will be able to block the ATM/debit cards instantly, if you think your SBI debit or ATM card has been compromised.

2. How to Unblock SBI ATM/Debit Card Using SBI Yono App?

To unblock your debit or ATM card with the SBI Yono App, follow the below listed steps.

  • Install the Yono App from Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
  • On the Home Page, find the “Quick Links” option.
  • Choose the “Service Request” option.
  • Navigate to the “Emergency” option and click on the “Block ATM/Debit Card” section
  • Select “Activate Card” and punch in your SBI Account number when asked.
  • Provide details of the Debi/ATM Card number that you want to unblock.
  • Authenticate by entering the “One Time Passcode (OTP)” received on your registered mobile number.
  • Click on the “Submit” to unblock the SBI ATM or debit card.

3. How to Unblock SBI ATM/Debit Card Using SMS?

To unblock your SBI ATM/ Debit Card using the SMS method, follow the below listed steps.

  • Go to the messaging section on the smartphone.
  • Click on it to create a new message
  • Type “BLOCK <give space> XXXX [You should replace the “XXX” with the last 4 numbers of the blocked debit or ATM card]
  • Now, send this message to 567676
  • Once you do, you will get a confirmation that states that “unblocking of ATM/debit card request has been received”.
  • SBI will proceed further with the request. After it is approved, the card will be unblocked.

4. How to unblock SBI ATM or debit card using customer helpline number?

To unblock SBI ATM or debit card using customer helpline number, call the toll free numbers provided by the SBI bank to raise a request. The SBI toll free numbers are listed below.

SBI Toll Free Numbers

  • 18001234
  • 18002100
  • 1800112211
  • 18004253800
  • 080-26599990 (Toll number, charges as per your mobile network)

For reporting unauthorised electronic transactions, use the below given numbers.

  • 1800111109 (Toll Free)
  • 9449112211 (Toll free mobile number)
  • 080-26599990 (Toll number, charges as per your mobile network)

You do have the option to send a mail to the SBI bank on the below listed email ids.

  • customercare@sbi.co.in
  • contactcentre@sbi.co.in

I will recommend not to use the Email option in emergency as the email reply usually takes a few days.

What to do when I receive an unsolicited message claiming to unblock my SBI ATM/Debit card?

A picture of SBI debit card in the blue background.

When you receive an unsolicited message claiming to unblock your SBI ATM/Debit card, don’t respond to the message and try to find the message source. The next thing you must do is to contact SBI banking officer as soon as possible as someone would be trying to scam you.

The things to do when you receive an unsolicited message are listed below.

  1. Don’t Respond: You should not respond to such messages. Don’t like to press on any website link or give out private details.
  2. Try to Find the Source: You must check the number or email from which the message was sent. Remember, all messages from SBI will be delivered through recognised email addresses and or numbers.
  3. Speak with the Banking Officer: You contact the SBI banking officer immediately when you get such messages. Otherwise, visit the SBI branch located near you to find out about the status of your card.
  4. Check the Bank Account: Gain access to the SBI account via net banking or the Yono App and look for all unauthorised transactions. 

Is it possible to unblock a SBI debit card that is blocked permanently?

No, it is not possible to unblock a debit or ATM card that is blocked permanently. You will have to apply for a new debit/ATM card from SBI.

How to know if my SBI debit card is blocked?

If your SBI ATM/debit card gets blocked, you will not be able to perform any transaction or payment. You will also get a notification on the registered phone number with the bank.

Can I unblock the SBI debit card via SMS?

Yes, you can unblock your SBI debit card via SMS. To do this, send a message to 567676 with the message: “BLOCK (space) XXXX”. The “XXXX” is the final 4 numbers of the debit/ATM card.

Is it possible to unblock the SBI debit card offline?

Yes, it is possible to unblock the SBi debit card offline. You will have to visit SBI branch and speak with the banking officer to proceed with the “debit card unblocking”.