How to easily block your EC card

If you have been the victim of theft or have lost your EC card, you should protect it from possible misuse and arrange to have your card blocked as quickly as possible. If you want to have your EC card blocked outside the opening hours of your local bank, you can use the Germany-wide blocking emergency call.

You have lost your EC card or been the victim of theft? We show you how you can have your EC card blocked.

How to block your EC card

Normally, a call to your house bank is enough to have your EC card blocked. Nevertheless, it can happen that your bank is not open when you want to block your EC card. That's why you can call the nationwide blocking emergency number. If you are abroad, you can still reach this blocking hotline by dialing +49 116 116. However, there is a charge for this service. Make the following preparations before dialing the blocking emergency call, so that your request can be processed quickly and your EC card can be blocked as soon as possible:

• Please have your identity card ready.
• Note your account number.
• Make a note of the time and place of disappearance and your last account activities.

Each bank also has its own emergency number, if you prefer to inform your bank center and have your card blocked there.

What costs will be incurred if you have your EC card blocked?

Direct costs for the blocking do not exist. Nevertheless, you will be charged a fee by your house bank to issue a new card. This can be up to 30 euros, but each bank has its own rules. Contact your branch for more information.