Lost or Stolen Credit Card: Block & Get a Replacement
Block a lost credit card in minutes via app, SMS or phone, dispute unauthorised transactions, and apply for a replacement card.
Updated 28 September 2026 · 107 cards from 17 issuers trackedWhat you need to know
If your card is lost or stolen, block it first and ask questions later. Every issuer lets you block a card instantly through its app or net banking, and most also by SMS from your registered mobile or via a 24×7 helpline. Blocking protects you from new transactions; reporting any unauthorised transactions within 3 working days keeps your liability at zero under RBI rules. A replacement card with a new number is then issued — some issuers waive the fee, others charge one.
- Many apps offer a temporary block (card lock) if you think the card is just misplaced; unlock it if you find it.
- A permanently blocked (hotlisted) card cannot be reactivated — the replacement has a new number and CVV.
- Cyber fraud can also be reported at cybercrime.gov.in or by calling 1930.
What to do, step by step
- Block the card immediatelyUse the issuer’s app or net banking (card controls → block/hotlist), SMS from your registered mobile, or call the 24×7 number on the issuer’s website.
- Check recent transactionsLook at the app and SMS alerts for anything you didn’t make.
- Report unauthorised transactionsRaise a dispute for each one with the issuer and note the reference number. Report within 3 working days for zero liability.
- File a police or cyber complaint if stolen or misusedAn FIR or cyber complaint acknowledgement may be needed for disputes or insurance claims.
- Request a replacementVia app, net banking or customer care. Confirm your delivery address and whether a fee applies.
- Update saved detailsReplace the old card on auto-pays, subscriptions, wallets and shopping sites; old tokens stop working.
Blocking methods at major issuers
| Issuer | How to block |
|---|---|
| HDFC Bank | SMS “Block Credit Card <last 4 digits>” to 7308080808; NetBanking or MyCards app → Hotlist; phone banking |
| SBI Card | SMS “BLOCK XXXX” (last 4 digits) to 5676791; SBI Card app → Service Request → Report Lost/Stolen; IVR (press 2) |
| ICICI Bank | iMobile Pay → Cards → Block Card (temporary or permanent); Internet Banking; 24×7 helpline |
| Axis Bank | Axis Mobile → Credit Cards → Controls → Block & Replace; SMS “BLOCK <card number>” from registered mobile; helpline |
| Kotak Mahindra Bank | SMS “CCLOST <last 4 digits>” to 5676788; Net/Mobile Banking → Report Lost Card |
| HSBC India | SMS “BLOCK HSBC <last 4 digits>” to 575750; app card controls; phone banking |
| Bank of Baroda (BOBCARD) | SMS “BLOCK <last 4 digits>” to 9223172141; BOBCARD One app; 24×7 helpline |
Your liability for fraudulent transactions
- RBI circular ’Customer Protection – Limiting Liability of Customers in Unauthorised Electronic Banking Transactions’, RBI/2017-18/15, DBR.No.Leg.BC.78/09.07.005/2017-18, dated 6 Jul 2017.
- Zero liability: (a) bank’s contributory fraud/negligence/deficiency, regardless of reporting; (b) third-party breach where customer notifies within 3 working days.
- Limited liability (third-party breach reported in 4–7 working days): lower of transaction value or cap — BSBD ₹5,000; savings/PPI/gift cards/small MSME ₹10,000; credit cards with limit up to ₹5 lakh and large business accounts ₹25,000.
- Reported beyond 7 working days: liability per bank’s board-approved policy.
- Shadow credit of disputed amount within 10 working days of notification; complaint resolved within 90 days; burden of proving customer liability lies on the bank.
Replacement card: what to expect
- A new card number, expiry date and CVV; your credit limit, outstanding balance and reward points carry over.
- Replacement fees vary by issuer and card — several waive it, some charge a fixed fee plus GST. Check the MITC or ask customer care.
- Delivery normally takes a few working days to your registered address; activate the new card with OTP consent.
- Keep paying the bill on the old account as usual — the due date doesn’t change because the card was blocked.
Frequently asked questions
How do I block my credit card immediately?
Use the issuer’s mobile app or net banking card controls — it works in seconds. If you can’t access the app, send the blocking SMS from your registered mobile or call the 24×7 helpline printed on the issuer’s website.
Am I liable for fraud on my lost card?
Not if the bank was at fault, or if you report the unauthorised transactions within 3 working days of the alert. If you report in 4–7 working days, liability is capped at ₹25,000 on cards with limits up to ₹5 lakh. The bank must credit the disputed amount (shadow credit) within 10 working days of your report.
Is there a charge for a replacement card?
It depends on the issuer and card. Some replace free (e.g. Union Bank lists nil lost-card charges), others charge a fee. It is listed in the card’s schedule of charges.
Can I unblock a card after hotlisting it?
No. A hotlisted card is permanently blocked. If you are not sure the card is lost, use the temporary block (card lock) option in the app instead.
Card features, fees and reward rates are compiled from issuers’ published terms and reputable card-review sites (source and date on each card page). Issuers change benefits often — confirm the latest MITC before applying.