How to Temporarily Lock or Freeze Your UnionBank Credit Card via App

If you lose your UnionBank Credit Card or simply want to stop anyone from using it temporarily, you can lock or freeze it instantly using the UnionBank mobile app. It’s a quick safety feature that blocks all transactions until you decide to unlock it again — no need to call customer service or cancel your card.

Introduction: When “Wait, Where’s My Card?” Becomes Panic

We’ve all had that mini-heart attack moment — you reach into your wallet, and your credit card isn’t there. Maybe you left it in another bag, or at a store, or your friend “borrowed” it to pay for coffee. 😅

If you’re a first-time UnionBank credit card user, here’s the good news:
You don’t have to call and cancel your card right away. UnionBank gives you the option to temporarily lock or freeze your credit card via the mobile app — instantly and safely.

This article explains how the feature works, why it’s useful, and the step-by-step process to do it properly.

What Does It Mean to “Lock” or “Freeze” a Credit Card?

Locking or freezing your UnionBank credit card means temporarily pausing all new transactions.

When locked:

You can’t make new purchases, online or in-store.
Recurring payments (like Netflix or insurance) may still go through.
You can unlock it anytime once you’ve found your card.

It’s like putting your card on “pause mode” — safe, reversible, and stress-free.

Why You Might Need to Lock Your UnionBank Credit Card

There are many reasons to use this feature — and not just for emergencies.

1. When You Misplace Your Card

Maybe you left it at home or dropped it somewhere in your bag. Locking it prevents anyone else from using it while you look for it.

2. When You Suspect Unauthorized Activity

If you see a suspicious transaction, freeze your card right away before calling customer service.

3. When You’re Controlling Spending

Want a break from impulsive online shopping? Freezing your card can help you discipline your spending temporarily.

4. When Traveling Abroad

If you’re not sure you’ll need your card, locking it keeps it secure from international fraud while you’re away.

How to Lock or Freeze Your UnionBank Credit Card via App

Here’s the step-by-step guide on how to use the UnionBank Mobile App to lock or freeze your credit card.

Step 1: Open the UnionBank App

Log in using your username and password or biometrics (Face ID or fingerprint). Make sure your app is updated to the latest version.

Step 2: Select Your Credit Card Account

From your dashboard, tap your UnionBank Credit Card under “Accounts.”

Step 3: Tap the “Card Settings” or “Manage Card” Option

Scroll down and find “Manage Card” or “Card Controls.” You’ll see options for lock, replace, or block.

Step 4: Choose “Lock Card”

Tap “Lock Card” or “Freeze Card” — this will immediately stop all transactions, including online and POS purchases.

Step 5: Confirm the Action

The app will ask you to confirm. Once done, you’ll see a message saying your card is temporarily locked.

Step 6: Unlock Anytime

If you later find your card, just go back to the same menu and tap “Unlock Card.” The card will be reactivated instantly.

💡 Tip: You can also receive a notification or email confirmation once your card is locked or unlocked.

What Happens When You Lock Your Credit Card?

Here’s a simple breakdown of what locking your UnionBank card does:

Transaction Type	Allowed When Locked?
In-store Purchases	❌ Not allowed
Online Purchases	❌ Not allowed
ATM Withdrawals	❌ Not allowed
Recurring Bills (Auto-charge)	✅ May still go through
Credit Card Payments	✅ Allowed
Unlock Anytime	✅ Yes, via app

So if your card is lost or misplaced temporarily, locking it blocks any unauthorized spending while keeping your account intact.

Lock vs. Block: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to confuse the two, especially for beginners.

Action	When to Use	Effect
Lock/Freeze	When you think your card is just misplaced	Temporarily disables all new transactions. You can unlock it anytime.
Block/Report Lost	When your card is truly lost or stolen	Permanently disables your card and requires replacement.

🔒 Lock = Temporary Pause
🚫 Block = Permanent Stop

Advantages of Using the Lock Feature

1. Instant Protection

You don’t need to call customer service or wait on hold. The moment you tap “Lock,” your card is safe.

2. No Need to Replace

Unlike blocking your card, you won’t have to wait for a new card or pay replacement fees.

3. Full Control Anytime

You can lock and unlock your card anytime — even at 2 AM — using just your phone.

4. Peace of Mind

Even if your card slips out of your wallet, you know no one can use it.

Common Questions First-Time Users Ask

“If I lock my card, will my current installment plans be affected?”

No. Your existing installment plans will continue as usual. Locking only affects new purchases.

“Can I still pay my bill if my card is locked?”

Yes. Locking only stops spending, not payments. You should still pay your due amount to avoid interest.

“Can I still earn rewards while locked?”

You’ll only earn rewards or cashback once you unlock and use your card again.

How to Check If Your Card Is Locked or Active

To check your card’s current status:

Open the UnionBank app.
Go to your credit card details.
Look for an icon or label that says “Locked” or “Active.”

If it’s locked, you’ll see a message like “Card temporarily frozen.” Tap to unlock it instantly.

How Locking Helps Prevent Fraud

UnionBank’s card lock feature is part of its broader fraud protection system, which includes:

One-Time PINs (OTPs) for online transactions
24/7 Fraud Monitoring to detect suspicious activity
Instant SMS alerts for each purchase

These features work together so even if you lose your card, your account remains safe and monitored.

Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator

If you’re temporarily freezing your card to manage spending or avoid late payments, the Credit Card Cost Calculator can help you plan better.

Use it to:

Estimate your monthly interest based on your balance
Compare how much you save by paying in full
Understand how credit card charges accumulate

It’s a great budgeting tool for new cardholders who want to stay debt-free while learning to manage credit responsibly.

Practical Tips for Credit Card Safety

Enable SMS or Email Alerts
Get notified of every transaction instantly.
Don’t Save Card Details Online
Avoid saving your card info on shopping sites or browsers.
Use Strong Passwords for the UnionBank App
Never reuse your password from social media accounts.
Review Your Statement Regularly
Check your monthly bill for unfamiliar transactions.
Lock Your Card When Not in Use
If you don’t plan to use it for a while, keep it locked for extra security.

Troubleshooting: If the Lock Feature Isn’t Working

If you can’t lock or unlock your card via the app:

Check your internet connection.
Update your UnionBank app to the latest version.
Restart your phone and log in again.
If the issue persists, call (02) 8841-8600 for assistance.

Summary: Easy, Fast, and Safe

Locking or freezing your UnionBank credit card via the app gives you instant control and protection over your finances.

Here’s a quick recap:

Open your UnionBank app → Select your card.
Tap “Lock Card” → Confirm.
Unlock anytime once found.
Keep using the Credit Card Cost Calculator to stay financially aware.

With this simple habit, you can avoid panic, protect your money, and enjoy stress-free credit card use.

FAQs: UnionBank Credit Card Lock Feature

1. Can I lock my UnionBank credit card anytime?

Yes, you can lock or unlock it anytime via the UnionBank mobile app.

2. Is there a fee for locking or unlocking my card?

No, it’s completely free.

3. What if I can’t find my card after locking it?

If you can’t find it within a day or two, report it lost and request a replacement.

4. Does locking my card affect my credit score?

No, locking or unlocking doesn’t affect your credit score.

5. Can I still receive refunds or credits while my card is locked?

Yes. Refunds from merchants will still post to your account.

Final Thought

The UnionBank app’s Lock/Freeze feature is one of the most useful tools for beginners learning credit safety. With just a few taps, you can protect yourself from fraud and control your spending — all without calling anyone or canceling your card.

So the next time you misplace your card, don’t panic — just lock it. 🟠

How to Temporarily Lock or Freeze Your UnionBank Credit Card via App