UBA apologises, says customers can now watch porn, access ‘risky sites’ with their cards

The United Bank for Africa says its customers can now use their debit cards to access risky websites and watch pornography or bet online.

Earlier, the bank restricted its cards from performing transaction on websites it found risky, saying  it had “become necessary with the increased need to protect our customers and the institution from fraud, litigation and reputational damages”.

The restrictions also barred customers from using the bank cards to purchase jewellery, which led to complaints from its users.

Reacting to the customers’ reservations, the bank through Chukwuma Nweke, the executive director and group COO, apologised for the restriction and lifted it immediately.

“In our relentless bid to continuously provide excellent services to our customers, we work hard to protect your transactions and Identity,” he said via a statement.

“We recently sent you correspondence indicating that your cards would be protected from certain risky sites. We have listened to you and have heard that this is not in line with your expectations. We have immediately made adjustments accordingly.

“Please be informed that all sites have been unblocked and you can now transact on any platform globally that you would like to whilst we continue to provide surveillance on some high risk activity points to protect your transactions.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and will continue to work hard to serve you better.”