Ever found yourself in a situation where you need to sever ties with someone financially, especially when they have access to your Nationwide account? Perhaps a joint account after a relationship breakdown, or you suspect fraudulent activity? It can be a daunting prospect, but rest assured, Nationwide has processes in place to help you manage these sensitive situations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring you understand your options and how to protect your financial well-being.
How to Block Someone on Nationwide: A Step-by-Step Guide
It's important to clarify what "blocking" someone on Nationwide means in a financial context. Unlike social media, you can't simply "block" someone from seeing your account. Instead, it usually refers to removing their access to a joint account, freezing an account, or reporting suspicious activity that might involve someone you know or previously knew. Let's dive into the specifics.
 |
| How To Block Someone On Nationwide |
Step 1: Identify the Nature of the "Block" You Need
Before you do anything, take a moment to consider why you need to block someone and what kind of access they currently have. This will significantly determine the path you need to take.
Sub-heading 1.1: Understanding Joint Account Access
Do you share a joint current account or savings account with this person? If so, both parties typically have equal access to funds unless specific mandates or agreements are in place. Blocking here means removing them as an account holder.
Sub-heading 1.2: Suspecting Fraudulent Activity
Are you concerned that someone, perhaps an acquaintance or even a family member, is misusing your account details or making unauthorized transactions? This is a different scenario requiring immediate action related to fraud prevention.
Sub-heading 1.3: Third-Party Access or Mandates
Have you previously set up a Third-Party Mandate or Power of Attorney for this person to manage your finances? If so, revoking this access is the key.
Being clear about your situation will empower you to take the most effective next steps.
Tip: Reading with intent makes content stick.
Step 2: Contacting Nationwide Directly – Your Primary Course of Action
For any significant changes to your account access or to report concerns, directly contacting Nationwide is paramount. Do not rely solely on online forms if the situation is urgent or sensitive.
Sub-heading 2.1: Calling Nationwide's Customer Service
This is often the quickest and most effective way to initiate a "block."
- For Joint Account Issues or General Enquiries: Call Nationwide's main customer service number. This number is usually found on their official website under the "Contact Us" section. As of my last update, a general contact number for Nationwide is 03457 30 20 10 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm; Saturday, 9am to 1pm; closed Sundays and bank holidays). However, always double-check the latest number on the official Nationwide website.
- For Fraud or Suspicious Activity: If you suspect any fraudulent activity, even if it involves someone you know, use Nationwide's dedicated fraud helpline immediately. They operate 24/7 for urgent matters. The UK fraud helpline is 0800 055 66 22. If calling from abroad, it's +44 1793 65 67 89 for current account fraud and +44 2476 43 89 97 for credit card fraud. Again, verify these numbers on Nationwide's official "Fraud and security" page.
Sub-heading 2.2: Visiting a Nationwide Branch
For complex situations, particularly concerning joint accounts or if you prefer face-to-face interaction, visiting your local Nationwide branch can be beneficial. They can guide you through the necessary forms and procedures.
- Be prepared: Bring your identification (e.g., passport, driving license) and any relevant account details.
Sub-heading 2.3: Using the Nationwide Internet Bank (Limited for Blocking)
While the Internet Bank is excellent for managing your own accounts, it generally doesn't offer a direct "block" feature for other individuals. However, you can use it to:
- Check transactions: Carefully review your transaction history to identify any suspicious payments.
- Update contact details: Ensure Nationwide has your correct contact information for alerts and communication.
- Manage registered devices: If someone has access to your online banking through a shared device, you can remove or de-register it through the Internet Bank. Go to "Manage" > "My Security" > "Manage devices."
Step 3: Specific Actions for Different "Blocking" Scenarios
Now, let's detail the steps based on the type of "block" you need to implement.
Sub-heading 3.1: Removing Someone from a Joint Account
This is a formal process that requires both account holders' agreement in most cases.
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
- Obtain the "Removal of Account Holder" Form: You can typically download this form from the Nationwide website (search for "Removal of Account Holder form") or pick one up at your local branch.
- Complete and Sign: Both account holders must complete and sign the form. If getting the other person's signature is problematic or impossible due to a dispute or estrangement, you MUST inform Nationwide of this difficulty. They will advise on alternative procedures, which may involve freezing the account (see next point) or seeking legal advice.
- Return the Form: All completed and signed forms must be returned to your local branch by the account holder who will be remaining on the account.
- What Happens Next: Once the form is processed, the removed account holder will lose all benefits linked to the account. If the remaining account holder isn't registered for internet banking, they will automatically be sent paper statements.
Sub-heading 3.2: Freezing a Joint Account (When Agreement Isn't Possible)
If a relationship has broken down and you cannot get the other person to agree to be removed from a joint account, Nationwide allows either party to request to freeze the account.
- Contact Nationwide: Call or visit a branch to explain your situation.
- Consequences of a Freeze: When an account is frozen, neither you nor the other account holder can withdraw any money until both parties agree to lift the freeze. This can be a drastic step, but it protects the funds from being unilaterally withdrawn by the other party.
- Consider Legal Advice: In cases of significant disputes, you might need to seek legal advice to resolve the situation and formally divide the funds.
Sub-heading 3.3: Reporting Fraud or Suspicious Activity
If you believe someone is using your account fraudulently or has gained unauthorized access, act immediately.
- Call the Fraud Helpline: As mentioned in Step 2, use the dedicated fraud prevention numbers. Provide them with all the details you have, including transaction dates, amounts, and any information about the person you suspect.
- Report Suspicious Messages/Emails: If you receive suspicious texts or emails claiming to be from Nationwide, do not click on any links. Instead, forward suspicious emails to phishing@nationwide.co.uk and suspicious texts to 7726 (a free service that reports scam texts to your mobile provider).
- Monitor Your Account: Keep a close eye on your transactions through the Internet Bank or Banking App. Report any further unrecognised activity.
- Change Passwords/PINs: If you suspect your login details have been compromised, immediately change your passnumber, memorable data, and PIN. You can often do this through the Internet Bank or by visiting a branch.
- Consider a Police Report: For significant fraud, Nationwide may advise you to report the incident to the police or Action Fraud (in the UK).
Sub-heading 3.4: Revoking Third-Party Access (Mandate or Power of Attorney)
If you've granted someone third-party access and wish to revoke it:
 |
- Review the Original Agreement: Understand the terms under which the access was granted.
- Contact Nationwide: Inform them that you wish to revoke the mandate or Power of Attorney. They will guide you through the specific process and any required documentation.
- Provide Written Notice: It's often advisable to provide written notice to Nationwide and, if appropriate and safe, to the individual whose access you are revoking.
Step 4: Secure Your Accounts and Personal Information
Once you've taken the necessary steps to "block" someone, it's crucial to bolster your overall account security.
Sub-heading 4.1: Strong Passwords and Security Details
- Create Unique Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts, especially banking. Never reuse passwords.
- Memorable Data and Passnumbers: Ensure your Nationwide passnumber and memorable data are strong and not easily guessable.
- Never Share: Absolutely never share your PIN, full passnumber, memorable data, or card reader codes with anyone, not even someone claiming to be from Nationwide.
Sub-heading 4.2: Regular Account Monitoring
- Check Statements Regularly: Review your bank statements and online transaction history frequently for any unfamiliar activity.
- Set Up Alerts: Nationwide often offers alerts for large transactions or login attempts. Enable these for an extra layer of security.
Sub-heading 4.3: Be Aware of Scams
- Phishing and Vishing: Be highly vigilant against phishing emails (fake emails designed to steal your details) and vishing calls (fraudulent calls). Nationwide will never ask you for your full security details via email or phone. If in doubt, hang up and call them back on a number you trust (e.g., from their official website or the back of your card).
- 159 Service: In the UK, if you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be your bank, you can hang up and dial 159 to be connected securely to your bank's fraud department.
Step 5: Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of all your actions.
- Dates and Times: Note the date and time of all calls, branch visits, and form submissions.
- Names of Representatives: If speaking to someone at Nationwide, ask for their name or employee ID.
- Reference Numbers: Keep any reference numbers provided for your case.
- Copies of Forms: Make copies of any forms you submit.
- Communication Records: Save emails or messages related to the situation.
This documentation will be invaluable if there are any future queries or disputes.
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
10 Related FAQs: How to...
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to managing your Nationwide accounts and their quick answers:
How to Check My Nationwide Account Balance Online?
You can check your Nationwide account balance by logging into the Nationwide Internet Bank on their website or by using the Nationwide Banking App on your smartphone or tablet.
How to Report a Lost or Stolen Nationwide Card?
Immediately report a lost or stolen Nationwide debit or credit card by calling their dedicated lost and stolen cards helpline, which is available 24/7. The number is typically found on the Nationwide website or by searching "Nationwide lost card."
How to Change My Nationwide PIN?
You can usually change your Nationwide PIN at any Nationwide ATM, at a Nationwide branch, or through the Nationwide Banking App.
How to Set Up a New Payee on Nationwide Online Banking?
Log into your Nationwide Internet Bank account, navigate to the "Payments & Transfers" section, and look for an option to "Manage payees" or "Set up new payee." You'll likely need your card reader to confirm the new payee.
How to View My Nationwide Statements Online?
Log into the Nationwide Internet Bank and look for a section related to "Statements" or "Documents." You should be able to view, download, or print your statements there.
Tip: Highlight sentences that answer your questions.
How to Contact Nationwide Customer Service?
You can contact Nationwide customer service by phone (numbers are on their official website), by visiting a local branch, or sometimes through secure messaging within the Internet Bank or Banking App.
How to Close a Nationwide Joint Account?
To close a joint Nationwide account, both account holders typically need to agree and sign a closure form. You can usually do this online via the Internet Bank, by visiting a branch, or by post.
How to Report a Scam Email or Text to Nationwide?
Forward suspicious emails to phishing@nationwide.co.uk and suspicious text messages to 7726. Do not click on any links within them.
How to Update My Contact Details with Nationwide?
You can update your contact details (address, phone number, email) by logging into the Nationwide Internet Bank, using the Banking App, or by visiting a Nationwide branch.
How to Access My Nationwide Account if I'm Locked Out of Online Banking?
If you're locked out of Nationwide online banking, try using your Visa debit card and card reader to log in and reset your security details. If that doesn't work, you may need to re-register for online banking or contact Nationwide customer service.
 |
