Without going to the bank, the USSD code is a quick way to block the Sterling Bank account in Nigeria. Such as when the phone (or ATM debit card) is stolen or missing
You can block your Sterling Bank account with and without a USSD code. Dial *822*911# on your phone or another phone if your phone is stolen. This code stop all transactions on your Sterling accout and works on Airtel, Mtn, Glo and 9 mobile networks. Alternatively, use online methods to deactivate your Sterling account.
Therefore, find out in this post how to use any of these options and other helpful topics
Block Sterling account
The Sterling USSD banking is an easy way to perform financial transactions on phone without going to the bank. You can open an account, send money to another bank, and check your account balance. However, it exposes you to scams and fraud. To prevent this, there is a short USSD code to block your account.
There are reasons why you should block your Sterling bank account. Firstly, if your phone is stolen or missing. Also, if you suspect your Sterling bank account is compromised. Or you do not want to use the USSD banking on your phone anymore.
In addition, you can deactivate your Sterling bank account if your ATM debit card is stolen or missing. However, it is better to block your Sterling ATM debit card.
Blocking your Sterling bank account secure your money. It prevents scammers and account fraud. For instance, no one can transfer or withdraw money from your Sterling account. Especially, when someone has your phone and knows your Sterling Bank 4-digit USSD PIN.
Depending on your choice, you can block your Sterling account temporarily or permanently. If you block your account when your phone is stolen, you can re-activate it when you retrieve the phone number. Or leave it if you do not want to operate the Sterling Bank account on your phone again.
Read: How to Block Sterling Bank ATM Debit Card
How to Block Sterling Bank Account from Another Phone
if your phone is stolen, for instance, you can deactivate the Sterling bank account using another phone number.
Here is how to block Sterling bank account from another phone:
- Dial *822*911# on another phone.
- Follow the on-screen prompts.
- Enter the phone number linked to your Sterling account.
- Select your Sterling account number to block.
- Enter your 4-digit USSD PIN.
This code *822*911# will block Sterling Bank on your phone automatically. And stops unauthorised transactions such as withdrawing your money.
USSD Code to Block Sterling Bank Account on Your Phone
You may need to block your Sterling Bank account. Not because you lost your phone or stolen but to prevent unwanted banking transactions on your phone.
Follow these steps to block Sterling Bank account on phone:
- Dial *822*911# on your phone
- Follow the on-screen prompts
- Select the Account to block.
- Enter your 4-digit USSD PIN.
- Lastly, receive a successful message.
Following these steps will deactivate your Sterling bank account permanently or temporarily. Thereby preventing you from scammers or experiencing fraud. Such as when you lost or misplaced your ATM debit card.
How to Block Sterling Bank Account Online
What if you want to block your Sterling bank account without using the USSD code? Then you can use the online method. Contact Sterling Bank customer care through any of the channels and a representative will assist you. You could call the dedicated phone numbers or message them on social media.
Note that you will not be able to deactivate your Sterling bank account through the mobile app or Internet banking.
Although you can block your Sterling account online through customer care, it is not as fast as dialling the USSD code. You only need a phone, not necessarily a phone number linked to your account. And within a few minutes, deactivate your Sterling bank account.
Sterling Bank Customer Care
Sterling Bank has various customer care units to resolve complaints or enquiries. So you can choose whichever is convenient for you.
Here are the Sterling Bank customer care channels to block your account:
- Sterling Bank Customer Care Number: +234 700 822 0000.
- Facebook: Sterling Bank Plc
- Twitter: @Sterling_Banking
- Sterling Bank WhatsApp Number: +234 906 000 6449.
- Email: customercare@sterling.ng
- Sterling Physical Bank: Visit the customer care unit.
Can a Scammer Block Your Bank Account?
A scammer can block your bank account if he has the required information. Someone who knows your account number, phone number and USSD PIN can block your Sterling bank account. Hence, if you must, be careful who you share your bank details with.
Therefore, you must keep your banking details private to prevent scammers from transferring your money. Such details include your USSD PIN, ATM card details (number, expiry date, CVV) and ATM PIN.
Sterling Bank will never ask for your PIN code and so you should not give it out to someone claiming to be from the bank.
Conclusion
In summary, You can dial the USSD code *822*911# to block your Sterling bank account. This will stop unauthorised transactions thereby preventing scammers from taking money from your account.
Another option to deactivate your Sterling bank account is by contacting customer care or visiting any Sterling bank branch. Of course, these two methods are not as quick as dialling the USSD code. But one of these options can be the best move in a certain scenario.
I hope you find this information helpful.
Therefore, try it and let me know your experience by leaving a message in the comment section below.
