Losing a wallet when moving about busy streets today or taking public transport is something that is very much commonplace, but can be very stressful.

Not only do you potentially lose cash, but you also may lose more important documents, such as, Aadhaar, PAN, driving license(s), bank cards etc. However, you can minimising risk and get your documents back as soon as possible if you are quick to act.

File an FIR immediately
The first thing you should do is go to the nearest police station and file a First Information Report, or an FIR. This first step is very important because it’s a legal record of a stolen wallet.

It also helps to safeguard you from identity theft if used to obtain credit or money from your bank account, etc. FIRs are sometimes also required to replace your missing documents.

Block your lost bank cards
If your wallet contained debit or credit cards, then you should block them immediately. You should call the 24/7 customer service line provided by your bank, and then get them to deactivate your credit/debit card.

This action stops endogenous amount transactions and also keeps your money safe. Most banks allow you to block cards from their mobile app and online banking sites as well.

Reapplying for your important documents:

Aadhaar card
To reapply for an Aadhaar card, just visit the UIDAI website or your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra. If you have your Aadhaar linked to your mobile number, you can get a reprint of your Aadhaar card online.

After the approval the new Aadhaar card will be sent to your registered address.

PAN Card
Go to the NSDL or UTIITSL website and select the “Reprint PAN” or “Lost PAN” option. Fill out the online form and upload proof of identity documents. In some cases, you require an FIR copy as a supporting document.

Driving License
Log in to parivahan.gov.in and you will be able to apply for a duplicate driving license. Upload the FIR copy and the required proof of identity documents and after verification, the transport department will issue a duplicate one.

ATM or Credit Cards
For duplicate bank cards, visit your bank branch or call customer care. Many banks will also allow you to make a new card request via the bank’s mobile banking application or net banking which would speed up the process.

Keep Backups and be Prepared
Losing your wallet is an inconvenience, but if you are prepared, you can reduce the stress that losing your wallet can cause. Maintain scans of important documents on a secure cloud drive.

Also Read: Bye Bye Acne! Monsoon Diet For Clear, Glowing Skin

Do not carry all the original documents around, especially when travelling. These precautions will help you to spend less time and effort worrying about your original documents in situations where you might have to replace them.

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