Cards and cash machines not working: what to do, step by step

Payment or bank outage. Below: what to do right away, what next, when to call 112 and what to avoid. The same instructions are in the free SurvivalZone app and work without internet.

Open in the app (works offline)

First, right now

Check whether it is just your bank or everyone: ask in a shop, listen to the radio and official updates.
Count your cash and spend it first on what you really need: food, water, medicines, fuel.
Watch out for texts and calls "from your bank" during an outage. Banks never ask for passwords, codes or app installs.

Then

Phone payments may not work either. Have a plan for cash.
Write your bank's helpline and your key phone numbers on paper.
If the outage lasts, fill up the car and shop for a few days. Do not buy more than you need.
For the future: keep cash at home in small notes for about a week of spending.
Banks usually move payments that fall due during an outage. Check your bank's announcement.

When to call 112

Only if something dangerous happens, such as unrest or a robbery. Report fraud to the police.

What not to do

Do not give your card details or login to anyone who calls or writes about the outage.
Do not click links in texts about "account verification" or "refunds".
Do not queue at a cash machine at night or show how much cash you have.

Keep it on your phone

SurvivalZone is a free app for every emergency, with no account and no app store. It works without internet and shows the nearest shelters and help points, local radio, a 72-hour plan and a mountain trip planner.

Open the SurvivalZone app

Other scenarios

Sources

Official sources are checked automatically every day. Last check: 2026-10-18.

General guidance only; it does not replace the emergency services. If a life is in danger, call 112.