The ID cardholder must immediately report the loss (loss, theft) of their ID card immediately to the blocking hotline or the responsible ID card authority so that the online ID function can be blocked and misuse prevented (see “Related Topics”).

Important: Without your PIN, no one can access your data. However, blocking the card ensures that any attempt at misuse can be immediately detected and prevented.

The easiest way to block the card is by calling the blocking hotline at 116 116 (toll-free from German landlines and cell phones). From abroad, the hotline can be reached for a fee at +49 116 116 or +49 (0)30 40 50 40 50. 

If you submitted your application by February 16, 2025, you can find the blocking information—in particular, the blocking password—in your PIN letter. As of February 17, 2025, you will find the deactivation code on the receipt that was given to you when you picked up your new ID card.

If you would like to have the online ID function blocked by the authorities, or if you no longer have the blocking password required for blocking by phone, you can also arrange for the function to be blocked directly at your local ID card office.

If you have found your ID card, you can have the block on the online ID function lifted in person at the ID card office. It is not possible to lift the block by phone.