Block your card while on vacation: Block credit cards and debit cards from Italy
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Lost or stolen your SIM card while on holiday in Tuscany? Immediately call the central card blocking hotline 116 116 – from Italy dial +49 116 116 or alternatively +49 30 4050 4050. The service is available 24/7.
Short answer: Block card from Italy
- Emergency call for blocking services: +49 116 116 or +49 30 4050 4050 (24 hours, 7 days)
- Among the cards that can be blocked are girocard, credit card, online banking, online ID function and SIM card – provided your provider participates.
- IBAN or account number keep ready
- In case of theft Advertising report it to the police (in Italy: Carabinieri or Polizia)
- Emergency number in Italy: 112
How to block your card while on vacation
step by step
- Block immediately: Call the emergency blocking hotline +49 116 116 or use the blocking function in your bank's app. The faster you block your account, the better protected you are against misuse.
- Have data ready: For girocard and online banking you need IBAN or account number and bank code; for credit cards you need the card number if possible.
- To file charges: In case of theft, go to the nearest police or Carabinieri station and have the report (denuncia) confirmed in writing. You will need this for your bank and insurance company.
- Block direct debits: The girocard can also be used for payments by signature (direct debit). Therefore, have the police additionally arrange for a so-called KUNO block – this is usually possible at the German police station after your return.
- Check bank statements: Check your transactions over the next few days and report any unknown debits to your bank immediately.
Not every bank is connected.
The emergency card blocking hotline forwards your call to participating card issuers. Some banks and credit card providers have their own blocking numbers. Therefore, save your bank's blocking number before traveling (it's usually on the back of your card and on the bank's website) – and write it down as well in case your mobile phone is also lost or stolen. Calls from abroad may incur charges; with EU roaming, you pay domestic rates within the EU. More information can be found under Making calls and emergency calls in Italy.
Lost your phone?
If your smartphone with payment function is lost, block the SIM card via your mobile provider or the emergency blocking hotline and remove the stored cards via your bank or the device search function of your smartphone manufacturer.
Liability and precautions before the trip
If you block your card immediately and haven't kept your PIN with the card, your liability for misuse before the block is generally limited to a maximum of €50; after the block is reported, the bank is liable. In cases of gross negligence – for example, if the PIN was written on the card – you could be liable for the full amount of the loss.
- Take two different cards with you and keep them separate.
- Do not leave cards unattended on beaches and in markets – especially in busy areas. Weekly markets of Tuscany Pickpockets are on the loose.
- Do not leave valuables visible in your car, even at rest stops; more tips in our Travel advice for Italy.
Frequently asked questions about blocking a card from abroad
Which number do I dial from Italy to block my card?
You can reach the blocking hotline from abroad at +49 116 116 or +49 30 4050 4050, around the clock.
Can I block any card via 116 116?
Only cards from participating banks and card issuers are accepted. Before traveling, also note down your own bank's card blocking number.
What do I need for the blocking?
For girocard and online banking, the IBAN or account number and bank code; for credit cards, preferably the card number.
Do I have to report the theft in Italy?
Yes, in case of theft, you should report it to the police or Carabinieri and obtain a confirmation. You will need this for your bank and insurance company.
How much will I have to pay myself in case of card misuse?
Generally, you are liable for a maximum of €50 for damages incurred before the account was blocked, provided you were not grossly negligent. After the account has been blocked, the bank is liable.
