Tips to keep your money safe when ATM card stuck in the machine | Fusion - WeRIndia

Getting your ATM card stuck in a machine can be extremely stressful, and many people react with panic when it happens.

The fear of losing money or facing unauthorised transactions often makes the situation feel even more urgent.

Yet, what matters most at that moment is staying calm and taking the correct steps without delay.

Acting quickly and responsibly can protect your bank account and prevent any financial loss.

The following detailed guide explains what you should do immediately and what actions you must avoid.

Block or Hotlist Your Card

• The first and most important step is to block your card. If your card remains inside the ATM or the machine stops responding, contact your bank’s customer care service right away.
• Most major banks provide 24×7 helpline numbers for such emergencies. Ask the representative to hotlist or block your card.
• Hotlisting permanently disables the card and prevents all unauthorised transactions.
• This step protects your money even if someone manages to remove the card later or tries to misuse your account details.
• Acting fast ensures your account stays safe until the issue is officially resolved.

Follow Bank Guidelines

• Almost all major banks, including SBI, HDFC, ICICI and Axis, have clear instructions for situations where a card gets stuck.
• You should carefully read any message displayed on the ATM screen because machines often show error codes or instructions.
• In some cases, the ATM may automatically release the card after a short delay.
• Therefore, remain patient and stay alert. Do not leave the machine unless you know what the bank advises or until the screen confirms the next step.

Call the Bank’s Toll-Free Number

• After checking the screen, call your bank’s toll-free helpline immediately. Provide accurate and complete information, such as the ATM ID number, the location of the machine and the exact time the card got stuck.
• These details help the bank track the incident faster and initiate safety measures.
• Quick reporting reduces the chances of misuse and supports a smooth resolution.

What You Must Not Do

Do not panic because it leads to confusion and delays action. Never leave the ATM unattended, as walking away increases the risk of card theft. Avoid ignoring the issue or waiting until the next day.

Remain near the machine until your card is blocked or bank officials guide you clearly.

Calm and prompt action is the safest approach in such situations.

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on January 30, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/571812