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ATM Myth vs. Reality: There's no need to panic if you enter an incorrect PIN at an ATM two or three times. Your card isn't permanently blocked; it's only temporarily blocked for security reasons. So, let's explore the rules and when a card is permanently blocked—the full truth...

Does entering an incorrect ATM PIN block a card?

Many times, when withdrawing money from an ATM, the PIN slips from our minds. We stand in front of the machine, try to remember it, and enter a guess. But then the message "Incorrect PIN" appears on the screen, and we try again, but the same message appears again. This leads to fear, wondering what will happen if we enter the wrong PIN a third time. Will the card be permanently blocked? Will we have to make repeated trips to the bank? Let's put an end to this fear and learn the true rules of banking today.

RBI has made a rule.
People often believe that if they repeatedly enter the wrong PIN, their ATM or debit card will be blocked, forcing them to make repeated visits to the bank. However, the truth is that banks have very strict rules for the safety of their customers. The Reserve Bank of India and almost all banks' rules state that you have a set number of chances to enter the correct PIN.

How many times can you enter the wrong PIN?
According to the rules, you can enter the wrong PIN at the ATM three times. Yes, if you enter the wrong PIN the first time, the machine warns you. Even if you enter the wrong PIN the second time, the machine gives you another chance. However, if you enter the wrong PIN a third time, your card is blocked immediately. This is not for your inconvenience, but for security purposes, to prevent a thief from withdrawing money from your card.

Is this block permanent?
But when a card is blocked, people often assume it's permanently blocked. If you're confused about this, the answer is no. Entering the wrong PIN three times doesn't permanently block your card. It's merely a temporary block. In most public and private banks, this block is only imposed for 24 hours. This means you won't be able to make any transactions with that card for 24 hours. Once the 24 hours are up, your card will automatically unblock, allowing you to use it again with your old PIN.

When is a card permanently blocked?
A permanent or "permanent" block occurs when the bank suspects the card has been stolen. If, after 24 hours, you repeatedly enter the wrong PIN when the card is unlocked, the bank may consider this suspicious activity. In such a case, the card may be hotlisted or permanently blocked for security reasons. After this, you have to apply to the bank for a new card.

What to do immediately if you enter an incorrect PIN
If you enter the wrong PIN twice, don't risk it the third time. Immediately press the 'Cancel' button and stop the transaction. If you make the mistake three times and your card is blocked, don't panic. Just wait 24 hours. If you need money urgently and your card is blocked, you can use your bank's mobile app or net banking. There's a 'Reset PIN' option. This allows you to quickly create a new PIN from the comfort of your home, and your card will be activated again.

Understand PIN Incorrectness in Simple Terms
Entering an incorrect PIN multiple times doesn't permanently block your ATM card. Instead, for safety reasons, it's usually temporarily blocked for 24 hours and then automatically unblocked. However, under special circumstances, the card may be permanently blocked, depending on the bank policy. If the card isn't unblocked within 24 hours, customers can request it through the mobile app, customer service, or by visiting a bank branch with their identification proof. In some cases, banks may also recommend issuing a new card. (Note: This news is based on general information.)

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