How To Block Ussd Code For First Bank

USSD Code Guide: How To Block USSD Code For First Bank

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) banking gives you quick access to your bank account using short codes on your mobile phone. It is convenient, but if your phone is lost, stolen, or used by someone else, you may want to disable or block USSD access for security reasons.

This guide explains, in general terms, how to block a USSD code for First Bank (commonly referring to First Bank of Nigeria), what to consider before doing so, and alternative security steps you can take. Because exact procedures can change over time, always confirm details directly with the bank or through its official channels.

Note: Browsing capabilities are limited to public web pages, and no official First Bank page providing a clear, step‑by‑step “USSD blocking” procedure was found during this search. Where exact instructions are unavailable, this guide uses best‑practice, generic security advice and does not guess any URLs or contact details.

What Is a USSD Code and Why Block It?

A USSD code is a short numeric code you dial on your phone (for example, *xxx#) to access banking services like:

Checking account balances
Transferring funds
Buying airtime and data
Paying bills

Because USSD runs over mobile networks without needing mobile data, it’s popular for quick banking. However, if someone gains access to your phone and knows your USSD banking PIN, they may be able to perform transactions on your account.

Blocking or disabling USSD access (or at least changing the PIN and limiting usage) is a useful security step when:

Your phone is lost or stolen
You suspect someone else knows your USSD PIN
You no longer want to use USSD for banking
You want to restrict access to your bank accounts from a specific mobile number

Understanding USSD Security for First Bank Users

While exact blocking instructions can differ by bank and country, the security principles are similar:

USSD is tied to your phone number
Access often depends on the SIM card and the registered mobile number.
A USSD PIN protects your transactions
Even if someone dials the bank’s shortcode, they usually need the PIN to complete transactions.
Blocking or restricting USSD can be done in several ways
- Deactivating the SIM/card with your mobile network provider
- Requesting the bank to stop USSD on your profile
- Changing or resetting your USSD PIN
- Moving to app‑only or card‑only usage if you prefer stronger controls

Because First Bank operates in a regulated financial environment, they are required to offer ways for customers to secure their accounts. If full USSD blocking is not offered as a self‑service code, it can typically be requested through official support.

How To Block USSD Code for First Bank: Practical Approaches

In practice, blocking USSD access for First Bank usually involves one or more of the following actions. As exact codes or contact channels may vary, always verify using official First Bank communication or your local branch.

1. Disable or Block the SIM With Your Mobile Network

If your phone or SIM is lost or stolen, the fastest way to neutralise USSD access is to block the line itself.

Steps (general):

Contact your mobile network provider (MTN, Glo, Airtel, 9mobile, Vodacom, etc.) via:
- Their customer care number (from another phone),
- Official website self‑service portals, or
- A physical service centre.
Request:
- Immediate blocking of the SIM / mobile number associated with your First Bank USSD service.
Ask for:
- A SIM replacement with the same number (if you want to retain your line) and
- Guidance on any further security checks.

Once the SIM is blocked, USSD transactions from that number should no longer work. This is usually the quickest way to cut off risk if your device is lost.

2. Ask First Bank to Restrict or Disable USSD on Your Profile

If you still have your phone (or a replacement SIM) but want to stop using USSD, you can generally request your bank to disable or restrict USSD access.

Typical options (which may vary by bank and region):

Disable USSD transfers while leaving balance checks on
Disable all USSD activities on your account
Unlink a particular phone number from your bank account

How to proceed:

Visit a First Bank branch (recommended for identity verification) and bring:
- Valid identification (e.g., national ID, driver’s licence, passport, or other locally accepted ID).
- Account details the bank requires.
Clearly state that you want to:
- “Disable / block USSD banking on my account / on my phone number.”
Follow the officer’s instructions and complete any necessary forms.

Because we do not have a verified direct link to a public First Bank page detailing this process, the above is a generic, realistic set of steps followed by most banks.

3. Change or Reset Your USSD PIN

If you suspect that someone else knows your USSD banking PIN—but you still want to use USSD—it’s safer to reset the PIN rather than completely disabling the service.

Typical flow (conceptual):

Dial the official First Bank USSD shortcode from your registered mobile number.
Look for menu options such as:
- “Security”
- “Change PIN” or “Reset PIN”
Follow on‑screen prompts to:
- Enter your old PIN (if known) and
- Choose a new, unique PIN.

If you have forgotten the old PIN or cannot log in, you may need to visit a branch or contact official support so they can reset the PIN after verifying your identity.

Use a strong, private PIN and never share it by phone, SMS, or messaging apps.

4. Reduce or Remove Linked Phone Numbers

In some setups, a customer can register more than one phone number for mobile or USSD banking. To reduce exposure:

Identify which mobile numbers are currently active for USSD with First Bank.
Request that the bank:
- Remove any numbers you no longer use, or
- Restrict USSD to a single, secure number.

This is generally handled at a branch or through authenticated customer support channels.

Additional Security Measures Beyond Blocking USSD

Even if you block or restrict USSD, it is important to look at your wider account security.

1. Monitor Your Account for Unauthorised Transactions

Regularly check:

Recent transfers
Card payments
Airtime or bill payments made through USSD or other channels

Report any suspicious or unauthorised activity to the bank as soon as possible. Financial institutions often have time windows for dispute resolution.

2. Use Official Digital Channels

If you prefer to move away from USSD, consider safer digital options like:

Official mobile banking apps
Internet banking via the bank’s website

To reduce risk:

Always download apps from official stores (Google Play Store or Apple App Store).
Avoid using public Wi‑Fi for sensitive transactions.

A useful generic overview of USSD and mobile payments security in Africa is provided by the GSM Association (GSMA), which covers broader security topics for mobile financial services:
https://www.gsma.com/mobilefordevelopment/resources/

(This is a general industry reference, not a First Bank specific document.)

3. Secure Your Phone

Even though USSD doesn’t rely on data, the device remains a central point of risk. Basic device security includes:

Enabling screen lock (PIN, pattern, fingerprint, or face recognition).
Turning on SIM PIN protection if supported and practical.
Avoiding the storage of banking PINs or passwords in plain text in notes or messaging apps.

4. Stay Alert to Fraud and Phishing

Be cautious of:

Calls or messages claiming to be from “the bank” asking for your PIN or USSD code.
Links in SMS or messaging apps that claim to “verify your account” or “unlock your USSD.”

Legitimate banks do not request full PINs or passwords by phone, SMS, email, or messaging apps.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blocking USSD Codes for First Bank

Can I fully block USSD myself using a code?

In many cases, full blocking or deactivation of USSD is handled by the bank’s customer support rather than by a self‑service code. Because no verified, official public instructions were found, you should:

Visit a First Bank branch, or
Use only official contact channels listed on First Bank’s verified communications or website.

If I block my SIM, is my USSD banking automatically blocked?

Yes, generally. If the SIM/phone number cannot connect to the network, it cannot initiate USSD sessions. However, you should still:

Inform the bank about the lost phone or SIM and
Ask if any additional protective measures are needed (e.g., card blocks, temporary holds, PIN changes).

Can I later reactivate USSD if I change my mind?

Most banks allow customers to re‑enable USSD after proper verification. Typically you would:

Request reactivation at a branch or through authenticated channels, and
Set up a new USSD PIN.

Key Takeaways

USSD banking is convenient but must be secured, especially if your phone or PIN is compromised.
To block USSD code for First Bank in practice, you can:
- Block or replace your SIM through your mobile network provider.
- Ask First Bank to disable or restrict USSD on your profile or phone number.
- Change or reset your USSD PIN and remove unused linked numbers.
Because public, step‑by‑step USSD blocking instructions from First Bank were not available via credible, open sources at the time of writing, always confirm the latest procedure directly through official First Bank channels or at a branch.

For users across Africa who use USSD banking regularly, understanding how to control and, when needed, block USSD access is an essential part of keeping your money safe.