Short answer
If you notice an unauthorized debit, treat it as urgent. Freeze or block the card or channel if possible, change passwords, call your bank through an official number, request a complaint ticket, and preserve evidence. Never share OTP, PIN, token codes, card details, or login information with anyone claiming to reverse the debit.
This page targets unauthorized debit Nigeria bank, money removed from account Nigeria, report bank fraud Nigeria, suspicious transfer Nigeria, and card fraud complaint Nigeria.
First priority: stop further loss
Unauthorized debits include card transactions you did not make, transfers you did not approve, unexplained merchant debits, account charges you do not recognize, and transactions after your phone, SIM, card, or banking login was compromised. The first priority is to stop further loss, then document the first loss.
CBN consumer information emphasizes complaint handling through financial institutions and escalation when the institution fails to resolve the complaint. For fraud, speed matters more than perfect wording. Call the bank through an official channel, ask for immediate restriction where appropriate, and make sure a complaint record exists.
Do not confuse a disputed bank charge with account takeover. A disputed charge may require fee or merchant investigation. Account takeover may require blocking cards, changing passwords, SIM checks, device checks, and reporting to law enforcement. If you are unsure, describe the issue as suspicious and ask the bank what immediate protection steps apply.
Step-by-step
- Use the bank's official app, phone line, branch, or card-blocking channel to stop further loss.
- Change passwords and revoke suspicious device access where the bank allows it.
- Collect debit alerts, statement entries, transaction references, merchant names, and screenshots.
- Report the unauthorized debit and ask the bank for a complaint ticket and written next steps.
- Escalate to CBN, FCCPC, or law-enforcement channels if the facts suggest fraud or the bank does not respond properly.
What to prepare
- Debit alert
- Account statement
- Card or transfer channel involved
- Merchant or beneficiary details
- Complaint ticket
- Screenshots of suspicious messages
If a phone was stolen or a SIM swap is suspected, record the time you noticed it, when you contacted the bank, and when you contacted your mobile network.
Common mistakes
- Calling a number found in a random SMS.
- Giving OTP to someone who says they are bank staff.
- Waiting because the amount is small.
- Deleting scam messages.
- Posting full account or card details online.
Use the number on the back of your card, your banking app, your bank's official website, or a known branch. Fraudsters often reply quickly after a public complaint.
People also ask
What should I do first after an unauthorized debit?
Block the affected card or channel where possible, contact your bank through an official channel, and request a complaint ticket.
Can the bank reverse it?
It depends on the transaction type, evidence, timing, and investigation. Report quickly and preserve proof.
Should I share OTP to reverse the debit?
No. Never share OTP, PIN, password, token code, or full card details. A real bank complaint process will not require your secret codes.
When should I involve police?
Consider law enforcement when there is fraud, account takeover, identity theft, threats, or a known scammer.
Can I escalate to CBN?
Yes, if your financial institution fails to resolve the complaint within the relevant CBN complaint period.