In a world where online and remote purchases are the norm, safeguarding our financial information has never been more crucial. Freezing your credit card is not just a reactive step for when your card goes missing; it is a proactive tool for managing your finances and protecting yourself from unauthorised transactions. Let's dive into how, when and why to freeze your credit card.
Credit card freezing is a security measure provided by credit card companies in the UK. It allows you to temporarily disable your credit card, instantly blocking transactions to prevent fraud. This includes stopping online and contactless payments, ATM withdrawals and money transfer payments. It is a crucial feature for anyone who wants to protect their credit account from unauthorised access, especially in cases where your credit card is lost or stolen.
To freeze your card, simply log into your mobile banking app or visit your credit card company's website. UK banks like Barclays and NatWest and digital platforms like Monzo offer this facility. Once you initiate the freeze, it takes effect immediately, pausing activities like online and remote purchases, cash machine withdrawals, but it may not stop all Google Pay or Apple Pay payments from going through.
Unfreezing is just as easy and instant. Access your card online through the credit card company banking app or website, and lift the freeze when you need to use your card again. This flexibility is useful in managing your spending habits or responding quickly to misplaced cards.
When you freeze your credit card, specific transactions, such as recurring payments for your regular subscriptions, typically continue. However, new activities like balance transfers, cash advances and contactless payments are halted. You should double-check with your credit card company to make sure this is the case for your individual card. This selective freezing helps maintain essential payments while protecting your account from fraudulent charges.
Freezing your credit cards does not affect your credit score. Unlike a credit report notice, which can be placed on your credit file to prevent identity theft, a card freeze is a temporary measure that does not influence your credit file history. Your financial profile remains intact if you maintain regular payments and responsibly manage your credit card debt.
In the UK, the ability to freeze your credit card offers a blend of security and convenience, which is essential in today's digital age. It empowers you to safeguard your current and new credit accounts against unauthorised use and fraudulent charges without disrupting your ongoing financial commitments.
Whether you think you may have misplaced your card or are worried about it being lost or stolen, the freeze feature is an invaluable tool for modern financial management and helps you safeguard your account from unauthorised use. Staying vigilant and proactive with your credit card and debit card security is key to maintaining a healthy credit score and financial well-being.
Do late payments affect your credit score?
Are minimum payments costing you money?
See more personal finance content on the Polar Credit Info Hub now.