Hello Readers,
If you’re reading this article, you probably already know about the terms Hold, Lien, and Freeze and the possible reasons your account is subject to these actions.
If you’re still unsure, I recommend reading my previous article for context.
Now, let’s understand the steps you should take if your bank account is frozen.
Steps to Follow When Your Bank Account is Frozen
1. Contact the Bank
Never hesitate to visit your nearest bank branch. If you prefer not to go in person, call your bank’s customer care representative. Make sure to find the official number on the bank’s authorized website – don’t rely solely on internet searches, as this could lead to scams.
2. Listen and Understand
When speaking with bank representatives, listen carefully to what they say. Write down key points, as most of the time, they will explain:
“Your bank account has been frozen due to a cybercrime report.”
3. Don’t Panic
There’s no need to worry if you haven’t committed any crime. Typically, the bank will ask you to contact your home branch for further clarification.
4. Contact Cyber Crime Authorities (Dial 1930)
Dial 1930, the official Cyber Crime Helpline. This portal allows you to:
- Report fraud (if it happened to you).
- Seek assistance if your account has been implicated in a cybercrime.
Provide your bank account details to the authorities. They will give you:
- An acknowledgement or complaint number.
- The name of the authority handling your case.
- Contact details of the investigation officer, including phone number and email ID.
5. Visit Your Home Branch
Even with the details from the Cyber Crime Portal, such as acknowledgement numbers or investigator information, you may still not know who filed the complaint or which transaction led to the freeze.
Visit your home branch and speak with the branch manager or operations manager. Ask them to provide the Complete Money Trail of the reported transactions.
6. Understand the Complete Money Trail
The Complete Money Trail should include:
- Acknowledgment or complaint number.
- Category of the complaint.
- Complainant’s name and contact details.
- Name of the state authority and investigation officer’s contact information.
- Detailed transaction information, including transaction dates, IDs, amounts, disputed amounts, and the “layer” you are associated with (this is critical for resolving the issue).
Some bank employees may claim they don’t have this information. Insist on obtaining all details, as they are essential for further action.
7. Don’t Lose Hope
If your branch refuses to provide the required information, don’t give up. Request the Nodal Officer’s email ID (available at the branch or on the bank’s official website) and send an email and Include:
- Your name.
- Account number.
- Branch location.
- A clear description of your issue.
Mention the branch’s lack of support, if applicable. You should receive the information within 7 days.
8. Contact the Authorities
In most cases, reaching the authorities by phone or email might take multiple attempts. Be persistent. Once you connect, explain your situation clearly. They may ask you to visit the related police station.
9. What If You Can’t Visit the Authorities?
If the authority’s location is far from your residence and you lack the funds to travel, you are in a difficult position. Legally, you should receive a notice from the bank or authorities with all complaint details within a week.
Even if you don’t receive the notice, don’t ignore the issue. It’s better to take proactive steps. If you cannot visit in person, seek legal advice.
In my case, I was in a similar situation where the complaint originated from another state far from my residence. I was unable to travel, but I received invaluable help from Mr. Sagar (+91-70541-60914), a lawyer who guided me through the process.
Take action promptly and don’t ignore such situations—they can escalate if left unaddressed. Stay informed and protect yourself!
