How to Switch to Zero SMS Alert Banking
SMS alerts for bank transactions once helped protect customers from fraud and keep them updated about account activity. But in recent years, especially in Nigeria, these alerts have become expensive often costing ₦6 per SMS or more and many customers want to switch off SMS alerts to avoid charges while still staying informed through other mean.
This article explains whether you can switch off SMS alerts, how to do it, alternatives you can use, and important industry context and rules.
Why People Want to Stop SMS Alerts
Many Nigerian banks increased their SMS transaction alert charges in 2025, from around ₦4 to ₦6 per message, citing rising telecommunications tariffs.
With frequent transactions, these costs can add up quickly especially for customers with multiple accounts.
However, SMS alerts are often set by default to help you track deposits, withdrawals, and transfers and switching them off must be done carefully to avoid losing critical notifications.
Is It Allowed? What the Regulation Says
According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Guide to Bank Charges, banks may charge for SMS alerts but customers are allowed to opt out if they choose not to receive them. However, when customers opt out, they may be asked to sign an indemnity, acknowledging that they are responsible for any losses that may arise from not receiving alerts.
The key regulatory points are:
- SMS transaction alerts are chargeable but only on customer induced transactions.
- Central Bank of Nigeria
Customers can choose not to receive SMS alerts, although they may need to accept some risk. - Central Bank of Nigeria
Email notifications are available at no extra charge in most cases.
This means it is legitimate and often encouraged to switch alerts to email or app push notifications to cut costs.
How to Disable SMS Alerts
The exact process varies by bank, but the standard options include:
Through the Bank’s Mobile App: Most modern banks allow you to manage alert preferences directly within their app.
Typical steps include:
- Log in to your bank’s mobile app.
- Navigate to Settings or Notification Preferences.
- Look for Transaction Alerts / Notification Settings.
- Toggle SMS Alerts OFF.
- Choose preferred alternatives (like email alerts or push notifications).
- Unleash: This method is often the simplest and fastest if your bank supports it within their app.
Via Online Banking (Web Portal):
Some banks let you manage alert preferences through their internet banking dashboard:
- Log in to your account online.
- Go to Settings/Alerts.
- Disable SMS alerts or uncheck them.
- Save changes.
This option is useful if your bank’s mobile app doesn’t support alert management or if you prefer using a browser.
In Branch Request:
Not all banks allow customers to switch off SMS alerts via digital channels. For such banks:
- Visit a branch location.
- Request a form or written
- instruction to disable SMS alerts.
- Sign the form and submit it to bank staff.
- Request confirmation that SMS alerts have been disabled.
This method may still require an indemnity form due to regulatory guidelines on disclosure and customer risk.
Email or Call Customer Support:
Some banks allow preferences changes through:
- Customer service email
- Phone support
- WhatsApp or messaging platforms
You may be required to verify identity before changes are made.
What Happens After Switching Off SMS Alerts?
When you successfully turn off SMS alerts:
- You stop being charged per message
- You may start receiving alerts via email usually free of charge.
- Some banks offer push notifications through their app as an alternative
Alternatives to SMS Alerts
Instead of SMS notifications, consider:
- Email Alerts: Nearly every bank allows email alerts for deposits, withdrawals, and transfers and they are generally free.
- Push Notifications: Banking apps can send real-time notifications over the internet. These are usually free and instant, and they work even when your phone number changes (as long as you re-login).
- App Transaction History: Most mobile banking apps show a detailed list of transactions without needing alerts. This helps you monitor activity without paying for SMS.
Things to Consider Before Switching Off SMS Alerts
- Risk of Missing Critical Notices: SMS alerts are reliable even without internet access. If you switch them off and don’t check email or the app regularly, you could miss unauthorized transactions or important notices.
- Regulatory Indemnity: Banks might require you to sign that you accept the risk of disabling mandatory SMS alerts.
- Email Security: Make sure your email account is secure and that you check it frequently so you don’t miss alerts.
Steps to Zero SMS Alert Banking
- Decide if you want to disable SMS alerts
- Log into your bank app or online portal
- Go to Notification Settings
- Turn off SMS Alerts
- Enable Email or App Push Alerts
In Conclusion, Many banks in Nigeria increased SMS alert fees from ₦4 to ₦6 per message due to higher telecom costs.
This has driven many customers to seek ways to disable or reduce SMS notifications and switch to less costly digital alternatives.
That context makes switching off SMS alerts not just a cost-saving measure, but a financial strategy for regular bank users in countries where charges are high.
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