Lost Your Credit Card? Here’s What to Do Immediately to Prevent Fraud

Losing a credit card can be a stressful experience. If you delay taking action, fraudsters may misuse your card within minutes. To protect yourself from financial loss, it is important to act quickly. Here are the key steps you must follow if your credit card is lost or stolen.

1. Instantly Block or Freeze Your Card

Log in to your bank’s mobile app or net banking and immediately switch off the card for all channels — ATM, POS, online, contactless, domestic, and international transactions.

2. Report Suspicious Transactions

If you notice any unauthorized activity, raise a formal complaint with your bank within three working days. You can do this via email, app, or written communication.

3. File a Cybercrime Complaint

If money has already been debited, call the National Cybercrime Helpline (1930) and register a complaint on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP).

4. Dispute Transactions & Update Passwords

Submit transaction dispute details to your bank along with screenshots, timestamps, and the 1930/NCRP acknowledgement number. Change your net banking password, reset your card PIN, and enable SMS/email alerts for all future transactions.

5. Monitor Your Credit Report

Be cautious of small “test” charges or hidden subscription fees. Regularly check your reports with all four credit bureaus over the next few weeks to ensure no fraudulent accounts are opened in your name.

6. Keep Records & Escalate if Needed

Maintain copies of your hotlist request, complaint numbers, and email confirmations. If the bank fails to resolve your issue, escalate the matter under the RBI Integrated Ombudsman Scheme.

7. Safeguard Your Digital Footprint

Only after receiving your replacement card should you update saved card details and remove unwanted merchant permissions to avoid misuse.