Entering the wrong PIN three times permanently blocks your Spendesk card's chip. This article explains why it happens and how to get a new card.
For: All Spendesk cardholders with a physical card.
Why this happens
After 3 incorrect PIN attempts, the card's chip is permanently blocked, even if the attempts occur on different days. This is a security measure applied by the card network, not by Spendesk, and it can't be reversed remotely.
⚠️ Warning: A card blocked after 3 wrong PIN attempts can't be unblocked or recovered. You must order a new card.
Get a replacement card
As a cardholder:
Contact your Administrator or Account Owner to report the blocked card.
Wait for them to order a replacement card for you.
Activate the new card once it arrives.
Enter your PIN on your first transaction to activate contactless payments.
As an Administrator or Account Owner:
Navigate to the Cards tab.
Click on the blocked card.
Click Block if the card isn't already blocked.
Click Report & Delete.
Select a reason for reporting the card.
Confirm the action.
Order a new card for the employee.
Confirm the delivery address before shipping.
Roles: Only Administrators and Account Owners can order or reissue a physical card. Cardholders must contact them to request a replacement.
Check your PIN before it's too late
Avoid a permanent block by checking your correct PIN in the app under My card > View PIN before attempting a payment if you're unsure.