All you need to know about Bank Verification Number

Introduction

All you need to know about Bank Verification Number | BVN: In the conventional world, everyone has a name – an identity by which every other person knows them. It is what confirms your existence, what people can use to locate or identify you, and in some cases, it can be used to verify your right of access. In the banking world, your identity is your bank verification number (BVN), but unlike your name, not everyone should have access to it.

The Bank Verification Number (BVN) is an 11-digit number that serves as a customer’s identity, and every bank in Nigeria recognizes it. The concept was introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (BVN), in collaboration with the Bankers Committee in February 2014, as a means of strengthening the Nigerian banking system.

The Federal High Court has granted the Federal Government an interim order directing commercial banks to freeze every bank account without BVN. This includes individuals, corporate bodies, and government agencies.

Effectiveness of BVN in Nigeria

According to research results from credible sources, BVN number Nigeria as a centralized biometric-based banking system has been partially effective in curbing and dealing with cases of cybercrime and illegal financial activities in the Nigerian banking sector. With major upgrades in operations and maintenance of the existing strict BVN protocols, it is projected that the Nigerian banking system will become cybercrime-proof, and financial crimes will be put to a halt in the future.

There are many rumours about illegal BVN generators that create fake BVN numbers. No matter how true this may be, fake BVNs cannot trick the Nigerian banking system- that is how effective and powerful this centralized banking system is. Anyone found guilty of generating and faking BVN can and will be punished by the law.

Disadvantages of BVN

Despite the benefits associated with the BVN, there are a few drawbacks that should be addressed and sorted by CBN in the near future.

First on the list is hackers’ ability to gain full information about a client by just having to their BVN. It is an indirect threat to the identity and funds of bank clients. Cybercriminals may use the information obtained via BVN to trick clients into surrendering sensitive information.

Also, since BVN operates on strict information uniformity, many clients find it difficult to link all their bank accounts to the same BVN because they have different names on each account. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can an account be hacked with BVN?

One of the reasons why banks warn against giving out sensitive information about your bank, like your BVN, is to protect your account from unauthorized access from hackers and people who may want to tamper with your funds. So, yes. Hackers may be able to gain access to bank accounts by using information from their BVNs.

Can BVN be blocked?

The CBN can decide to blacklist or block an individual’s BVN if the agency discovers illegal transactions or reports from credible sources of the account’s involvement in fraudulent activities.

Can BVN be done twice?

No. You can only enrol for a BVN once. However, it expires every ten years. After this period, you will be required to visit your bank or follow the required process to enrol for another BVN.

Can I change my BVN name?

Yes. The CBN may allow individuals to change their BVN name in the following cases:

Change of name due to marriage. In this case, it will only be allowed upon provision of documents like marriage certificate/affidavit.

Minor correction of name due to misspelling, like Osundare written as Oshundare. This will only be allowed upon the provision of valid means of identification like an international passport or national ID card that shows the correct name.

Change of totally different names (e.g., Kevin Adams to Michael Adekunle) may also be allowed upon provision of valid documents to support the change of name. Cases like this should be reported to the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFU) as a suspicious transaction by the banks.

Can I change my BVN number?

No. BVN is a centralized banking system that is set up for each customer based on their biometric data. So, every customer is entitled to only one BVN, and it cannot be changed.

Can I have two BVN?

No. Having two BVNs will raise suspicions of fraud and felony, and government authorities will investigate it.

Can my account be hacked with my BVN?

Yes. Unauthorized individuals can gain access to your account with your BVN. However, they will likely need more than your BVN to achieve that.

Can my account be hacked without my BVN?

Other sensitive information/data like card number, CVV, pin, and OTP is enough to hack your bank account. It is advisable to prevent other individuals from having access to such data.

Can my BVN be blacklisted?

Yes. Suppose your account is deemed part of a fraudulent scheme or is reported by credible sources for cybercrime involvement or refusal to pay back a loan. In that case, the Central Bank of Nigeria may blacklist your BVN and every account linked to it until the issue is settled.

Can my BVN be blocked?

The CBN has the authority to block your BVN if they discover any illegal transactions or if they receive multiple credible reports of fraud associated with your bank account.

Can someone hack a bank account with an account number?

Bank account number doesn’t fall under sensitive bank information; as such, it is not enough to be used for hacking accounts. Hackers cannot gain unauthorized access to your account by having only your account number.

Can someone hack my bank account with my phone number?

Your phone number doesn’t fall under sensitive bank information; thus, it is not enough to be used to hack your account. Hackers cannot gain unauthorized access to your account by having only your phone number. However, in combination with other sensitive bank information, it may be applied in hacking your account.

Can someone steal your money with your BVN?

Hackers having access to your BVN doesn’t automatically grant them the ability to steal or transfer funds from your account. However, they may try to trick you into surrendering more sensitive bank account information by using the personal information gotten from accessing your BVN.

Can someone use my BVN to withdraw my money?

Your BVN isn’t enough for anyone to withdraw your money. They need other sensitive information like Bank Card details, ATM Pin, USSD, Mobile, and Online Banking Passwords to do that, and you must be careful not to give it to them. Once you can keep these items secret, the funds in your bank account are safe. 

Can you give out your BVN number?

Disclosing your BVN to any individual does not pose a direct threat to the money in your account. However, it is advisable not to give anyone your BVN since it may prove vital in the process of hacking your account. The answer to this is NO.

Can your account be hacked with your BVN number?

With your BVN, hackers and ill-minded individuals may gain access to information that will further assist them in the process of hacking your account. Keep your BVN safe. It could be what helps cybercriminals gain unauthorized access to your account.

Can your money be stolen with BVN?

No. However, in combination with other sensitive information about your account, cybercriminals may be able to move funds away from your bank account illegally. In any case, keep your BVN safe.

How can I check my BVN details online?

This process will cost you 20 naira, so ensure you have up to that amount on your line. Simply dial *565*0#. You’ll receive a message showing your BVN. It works on all major network providers in Nigeria (MTN, GLO, 9Mobile, and Airtel).

Note that this procedure works for only BVN-registered phone numbers. Phone numbers that have not been linked to any bank account will not display any BVN details.

How can I check my BVN on GTB?

Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) is one of the best banks in Nigeria and one of the reasons why is its top-notch and seamless banking system. This comes into play when their customers need to check their BVN details. Simply dial *737*6*1#. You will receive a prompt detailing your account balance, account name, and BVN.

How can I check my BVN with my phone?

The advent of technology and its incorporation into the banking system has made many things easy, especially for customers. You can easily check your BVN with your phone by dialling *565*0# using the number linked to your BVN. This method will work, irrespective of the bank or network you use.

How can I check my BVN?

There are many ways to check your BVN, but the easiest way is through USSD on your phone. All you have to do is dial *565*0# using the mobile number you registered with, and voila! You will receive a pop-up message detailing your BVN.

How can I know my BVN number?

You may be required to provide your BVN for certain purposes, like when you’re registering for your National ID card, so it is vital for you to know how to gain access to it. Using your phone and the number you registered your BVN with, dial *565*0#. You will receive a message that contains details about your BVN in a matter of seconds. If you are a GTBank customer, dial *737*6*1# with the phone number your bank account is registered to. You will also receive a message with your BVN details.

How can I transfer money from BVN to my account?

Your BVN is your identity in the banking system. It is not a source of funds from which you can send money to your real account or any other bank account.

How do I link my BVN to my phone number?

You get to choose the phone number you want to link your BVN to during the BVN enrollment process. The phone number you provide during the enrolment process will be automatically linked to your BVN.

How important is my BVN?

BVN was introduced as a centralized banking system built using customer biometrics to help reduce, mitigate, and trace cases of fraud, unauthorized access, and breach of security. It is very important because:

It gives you a unique identity that can be verified across the whole Nigerian Banking System (every bank in Nigeria recognizes it)

• Your BVN protects your bank accounts from unauthorized access.
• It reduces cases of fraudulent activities on bank accounts
• With your BVN, you get easy access to executing banking operations

How many people have BVN in Nigeria?

According to the Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NBISS), over 40 million active bank accounts are currently linked with BVN. It is hard to conclude whether this translates to 40 million people having BVN in Nigeria.

How to block your bank account?

In emergency cases, or maybe you just want to change your bank, you may need to block your existing bank account. There are various banks in Nigeria, and each one of them has different ways through which their customers may block their existing bank accounts. Some will require you to call or text a number while using USSD codes for others. Either way, you can block your bank account no matter the bank. Here’s how:

• For GTBank – *737*51*10#
• For FCMB Bank – call + 2342798800
• For First Bank – text “BLOCK” to 30012
• For Union Bank – text “BLOCK CARD NUBAN” to 20123
• For UBA – dial *919*10#
• Fidelity Bank dial *770911#
• Zenith Bankdial *966*911#
• Keystone Bank call 23470020003000
• Sterling Bank call 070078378464
• IBTC Bank dial *909#. Afterwards, select my bank and select service request, and then select block card.
• Wema Bank call 08039003700
• Polaris call +2341270850
• For Access Bank, dial *901*911#

Remember that you have to do this using the mobile number linked to the bank account in question.

How to change my access bank phone number

Currently, there is no online process for changing your Access Bank phone number. You have to do it the old-fashioned way- to visit a bank branch, request and fill out a form, and wait for further instructions.

How to change my BVN phone number online

The only way you can currently change your BVN phone number is to visit a bank and do it manually by filling out a BVN incidence/correction form.

The incidence form will require you to provide information such as date, BVN, bank account number, phone number, surname, first name, gender, date of birth, and email address.

You will also be required to give your incidence/correction report. This means you will have to state clearly and concisely exactly why you want your phone number changed.

How to change my bank phone number? 

For many banks in Nigeria, changing your registered phone number is quite easy. Take GTBank and First Bank, for example, two of the richest banks in Nigeria; their customers will find it easy to change their bank phone numbers.

For First Bank, all you have to do is:

• Log in to the online banking platform.
• Find and click on the Self-Service tab.
• Under the Personal Information tab, click on Main Customer Information.
• Enter a new phone number and click Update.
• Your details will be updated automatically.

For GTBank:

• Log on to internet banking with your User ID and Password.
• Click on the “Self-Service” option on the menu bar.
• Click on “Customer Information Update”
• Click on “New request.
• Complete the form displayed
• Enter the “Answer to your secret question.”
• Review details captured to confirm the accuracy.
• Click on “Continue”
• Enter your “Token code.”
• Click “Submit” to automatically update your phone number.
• The ease of this process is one reason why GTBank is arguably the best bank in Nigeria.
• You could also try updating your phone number via the ATM. This is the process:
• Locate your bank’s ATM nearest to you
• Insert the card into the ATM terminal
• Enter your “PIN” and press “Proceed.”
• Select “Perform other transaction.”
• Select “More services.”
• Select “Update Phone Number”
• Enter your “Mobile number” and press “proceed.”
• Enter “PIN” and press “Proceed.”
• Confirm the phone number displayed and press “Proceed” to update your Mobile Number. 

How to change the number on BVN

To change the phone number linked to your BVN, you will need to visit your bank. Choose a branch nearest to you. There, you will request and fill in a BVN incidence/report form. You will need to fill in basic information like your name, BVN, email address, and why you want to change your phone number. After filling out and submitting the form, wait for further instructions from your bank.

How to check BVN details online

Dial *565*0# to check the Bank Verification Number (BVN) on Airtel, MTN, GLO, and ETISALAT. The bank will charge N20 for the verification process, so ensure you have up to that amount on your line. If you are a GTB customer, then dial *737*6*1# to check your BVN number.

Remember that this will only work if you dial the USSD code using the phone number linked to your BVN/bank account.

How to register BVN outside of Nigeria

Nigerian banks have offshore BVN enrolment branches where Nigerians in the diaspora may visit to set an appointment for BVN enrolment. Visit your bank’s BVN enrolment portal for more details about their BVN enrolment centres outside Nigeria.

I forgot my Access Bank number. What do I do?

Don’t hit the panic button just yet. You can easily access your Access Bank account number through very simple processes.

If you subscribed to receiving debit and credit alerts via your email address, all you have to do is check a past alert email from your bank. You will find your bank account number included in the message.

Check your account number simply by logging into your online internet banking platform. You will find your account number boldly written there.

You can check for part of your account number by checking a past SMS credit or debit alert on your phone.

Your bank sends you a monthly statement of account or a breakdown of your transactions for the month. Open the document sent to you for any month, and you will find your account number boldly written somewhere there.

ATMs are not only for withdrawing or sending money. They can also come in handy when you want to check for details about your account, including your account number.

How to check BVN on MTN

You can dial *565*0# or *737*6*1# (for GTBank customers) to check your BVN on MTN. After running the USSD, you will receive a pop-up message containing details of your BVN. This method is quite easier and safer than using any BVN checker apk, and it doesn’t require any BVN pin. 

 How to check BVN online

Using USSD, you can check your BVN in a matter of seconds. Simply dial *737*6*1# if you’re a GTBank customer, or *565*0# for other banks using the BVN-registered phone number. After this, a message with your BVN details will be sent to your phone. 

How to check my BVN date of birth

First, you have to get your BVN. To do this:

Dial *565*0# using the phone number linked to your BVN.

Suppose you are a GTBank customer, dial *737*6*1#.

Copy the BVN from the message you will receive, and visit the nearest bank branch.

With that, you can check all your BVN details at the bank and even decide to change any part you deem necessary. 

How to check my BVN date of birth online

You can only get your BVN online. To check your BVN date of birth, you have to visit the nearest bank branch. You will need your BVN to complete the process, so copy your BVN and head to the bank. To get your BVN, simply dial *737*6*1# (if you are a GTBank customer) or *565*0#. You will receive your BVN within seconds, and you can copy it from there. 

My BVN is blocked. What do I do?

If your BVN is blocked, then it means one of the bank accounts linked to it has been flagged to be involved in one fraudulent activity or the other. If you’re sure it was a mistake, simply visit the nearest branch of your bank to complain. 

How to check my BVN name

For GTBank customers, dial *737*6*1#. Other bank clients should dial *565*0#. You will receive a message will your BVN. Copy the BVN and visit the nearest bank branch. To check your BVN details, including your name, you will provide your BVN, and the bank attendant will check for you. 

How to check my BVN online

If you’re lucky enough to be a GTBank customer, simply dial *737*6*1# if you use other banks, dial *565*0#. Dialling these USSD codes with the number linked to your BVN will prompt your bank to send your BVN. Note that this activity will cost you 20 naira. 

How to check my account number

If you just opened an account with a bank, you may find it difficult to memorize your account numbers. Don’t worry. There are simple ways for you to check your account number from time to time, no matter the bank you are using. Find out here:

If you subscribed to receiving debit and credit alerts via your email address, all you have to do is check a past alert email from your bank. You will find your bank account number included in the message.

Check your account number simply by logging into your online internet banking platform. You will find your account number boldly written there.

You can check for part of your account number by checking a past SMS credit or debit alert on your phone.

Your bank sends you a monthly statement of account or a breakdown of your transactions for the month. Open the document sent to you for any month, and you will find your account number boldly written somewhere there.

ATMs are not only for withdrawing or sending money. They can also come in handy when you want to check for details about your account, including your account number.

How to correct my BVN name

To correct your BVN name, what you need to do is a BVN data update. It’s quite simple.

Swear an affidavit in the court of law, and obtain a printed format with your passport photograph boldly stapled to the front. Ensure you go with a valid means of identification that shows your real name (e.g., ID card, International Passport, and so on)

Submit the sworn affidavit to your bank. They will make the necessary corrections in less than 24 hours.

How to report a scammer in Nigeria

Most scam operations aim to dupe people of their money, which is why the best agency to report a scammer is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). A Twitter post by the official account of the EFCC says, “You can report a fraud case in person at a #EFCCNearYou office along with relevant documents.”

You can also report a scammer on social media by tagging or sending a private message to the official social media accounts of the police and the EFCC, with evidence to back up your report.

Another online method to report a scammer in Nigeria is to send a direct email to the authentic email addresses of the Nigerian Police Force and the EFCC (policemonitor@npf.gov.ng and info@efccnigeria.org).

You can also report directly to the EFCC by calling their hotlines: +234 9 9044752 and +234 9 9044753. To contact the police, simply dial 112 or 199. 

How to retrieve BVN without a phone number

No one wants to experience unfortunate events, but you may misplace your phone or lose the line linked to your BVN. Don’t panic. Your BVN isn’t lost forever. Visit the nearest bank branch in your area to complain, and request for your BVN. You will be required to fill in certain information that will prove your right of access to the BVN in question, so go prepared.

How to secure my BVN

• Keeping your BVN private is the best way to secure it. Here’s how you can keep your BVN private:
• Never disclose your BVN to anyone.
• Don’t write your BVN on a piece of paper in public or even at home. It may fall into the wrong hands.
• Don’t input your BVN anywhere online.
• Ignore calls and emails asking for your BVN or bank details.
• Protect your phone from unauthorized access by using a password, pin, or another iron-clad security measure.

How to transfer money with just my BVN

To transfer money from your account, you need to either do it through your phone, ATM or by visiting the bank. Either way, you won’t need to input your BVN to make transactions. Kindly ignore any portal that requests for your BVN to transfer money.

How to transfer money without an ATM pin

Thanks to technology, some ATMs are fingerprint-enabled. You do not need your ATM pin to transfer money to such ATMs. If you can’t find a fingerprint-enabled ATM, your next viable option is to visit the bank and have the money transferred through an attendant on the counter.

How to update BVN data

You can correct your BVN data, both online and offline. Some banks permit BVN to update operations on their Internet banking platforms. However, not all BVN updates can be done online. For example, to change your name, you will be required to provide an affidavit bearing witness to your change of name at the bank.

How to withdraw money using your BVN

You don’t need your BVN to withdraw money. In most cases, all you need are your ATM card and PIN.

Importance of BVN

BVN is serving the purpose of fighting financial cybercrime, enhancing seamless banking operations, and creating a unique identity for every bank client. You need BVN to register for a National ID card and International Passport. In fact, the process of applying for loans is basically a BVN loan application process, as you will be required to provide your BVN.

Is BVN a secret number?

In a way, yes. BVN is a unique 11-digit number that serves as every customer’s identity in the Nigerian banking system. It may be used to access private information on customers, so it is best to keep it from getting out to the public. Giving out your BVN will get you nothing but hacked bank account details.

Is it advisable to give out BVN?

No. Your BVN should be kept private, as it can be used to access private information about you.

Is it safe to give out BVN?

Your BVN is not your phone number. You cannot give it out to people upon request or for any reason at all. It is sensitive bank information that should be kept private, and if possible, accessible by you and you alone.

Is it safe to give out your BVN number?

Absolutely not. Never give out your BVN to anyone- friend, foe, or stranger.

What are the requirements for BVN?

To get your own BVN, what you need to do is BVN Enrolment. Every bank in Nigeria has various BVN registration portals across the country, so visit any one of them to complete your enrolment. The process is quite simple and straightforward. These are the requirements:

• The BVN Enrolment form can be downloaded online or requested at any of your bank’s branches.
• Valid ID: ( anyone below will suffice) –
• International Passport
• National ID card
• Driver’s license
• Any other valid means of identification
• One recent passport photograph
• Enrolment fee. See details under application service fees.
• Appointment slip. You will have to secure an appointment at the enrolment office before you become eligible for enrolment.

After receiving your BVN, you will need to validate and update it via your bank’s online banking BVN portal.

Note: BVN online registration is not possible. You can only register online for an appointment with a credible BVN enrolment service. You will be required to visit any of their branches to complete your registration and receive your BVN afterwards.

What does BVN mean in the text?

In-text, BVN means Bank Verification Number.

What happens when my BVN is blacklisted?

If your BVN ends up blacklisted by a bank or the CBN, you may not be able to acquire new loans or new credit lines. You may also encounter difficulties in executing other operations that may require verification of your BVN. The best thing to do is to avoid being blacklisted. Avoid the blacklist by refraining from any form of fraudulent activity or cybercrime, and ensure that you pay your loans in due time.

What is the importance of BVN?

It helps in reducing cases of fraudulent activities and in tracing cybercriminals that engage in such. It also serves as a universal banking identity, which is recognized by every bank in Nigeria.

Which President brought BVN to Nigeria?

Although the concept of BVN was first proposed under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, BVN was fully implemented and incorporated into the Nigerian banking system under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Who introduced BVN in Nigeria?

BVN was first discussed and mentioned as a viable and effective way of curbing cybercrime under President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. However, it was implemented by President Buhari with the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Bankers Committee spearheading the operation. 

Conclusion

The banking sector deals with the funds and financial products of millions of people. These people need to feel safe. They need to know that banks have tight security measures to protect their assets. In turn, banks need to constantly assure their clients of their safety and make sure that cybercriminals are traced and brought to book. The BVN system makes all this possible while also creating a path to a seamless banking experience.

Stop stalling. Get your BVN today. Your banking experience will be better for it.