Enter your email address below and subscribe to our newsletter

How to Delete Transaction History on First Bank Easily

July 13, 2024

Want to keep your banking records clean and safe? If you have been wondering how to delete transaction history on First Bank app or how to erase old transactions on First Bank app, then you are not alone.

Many people try erasing their old transactions for privacy or organizational purposes.

With increasing digitalism, the concerns for today’s world are related to privacy and security. There can be many reasons people will want to delete the transaction history on First Bank mobile apps.

This could be for reasons of personal security or that you prefer not to have a crowded transaction history—whatever the case, knowing it can be very instrumental.

In this article, we will look at how to delete transaction history on First Bank mobile app, providing insights and advice to help you manage the process properly.

Kindly stay with us as we break down each step in straightforward and easy-to-follow ways to ensure you can manage your financial records effortlessly with the First Bank App.

Can I Delete My Transaction History on First Bank?

How to Delete Transaction History on First Bank App

Unfortunately, deleting one’s transaction history is not possible directly on First Bank.

The law and fraud prevention requires that such records be kept. They are, in fact, legally mandatory and a precondition of security.

You can, however, hide or filter transactions by simply making them easier to manage. This option may vary depending on whether you use First Bank online banking or their mobile application.

FirstBank has given users the tools to manage their transactions by categorizing and labeling their spending to track and analyze financial activities.

Setting up alerts on specific transactions or even general account activities put everything in order, gaining a feel for your financial overview without having its operation mar regulatory compliance.

Read Also- How to Borrow Quick Loan from First Bank

Why Is It Not Possible to Delete Transaction History on the First Bank Mobile App?

There are a couple of reasons why you can’t delete transaction history on First Bank Mobile App if you are wondering how to delete transaction history on First Bank app:

1. Regulatory Requirements

Banks are compelled by the set regulations to keep records of all financial transactions for a while.

This is important in preventing fraud, money laundering, and assurance of accurate tax reporting. It helps in conducting audits and investigations if needed.

2. Security and Dispute Resolution

A full transaction history benefits you and the bank. It’s easy to refer back to it in case there are any discrepancies or fraudulent transactions for verification and dispute resolution.

3. Technical Limitations

The infrastructure of most banking systems is designed to keep transaction records forever for operational consistency and features like financial reporting and analysis.

For example, most countries require banks to keep records of transactions for years by law. This can be very helpful for legal, investigation, or auditing purposes.

5. Historical Information

Transaction history allows the customer to track spending against budgets and make rational financial decisions. Deleting this information will impede such financial management activities.

While deleting individual transactions is not possible, you could still draw on it for any period in your transaction history or download it for your records.

Also Read – How to Delete Transaction History on Opay Easily

What Are the Alternatives to Deleting Transaction History on the First Bank App?

Although there seems to be no option to delete transaction history in First Bank mobile apps, there are some other ways through which one could manage their history effectively. These include:

1. Filtering and Searching

Most banking apps, including First Bank’s, have some kind of filters that allow narrowing down transactions by date, amount, payee, category, etc.

This allows you to view specific periods or transactions that are relevant to your needs. Secondly, utilize the search bar to find any transactions by keyword or description and go granular.

2. Download Statements

Consider downloading all of your past transaction history for any period in the form of a PDF document or the form of a CSV file. 

This creates an offline copy, which you can store somewhere other than within the app.

With this downloaded data, using a spreadsheet or budgeting software will now allow you to classify those transactions for further analysis.

3. Hiding Transactions 

You can hide some transactions so that your history remains clean and at a view.

This feature is especially useful for transactions not relevant to your current financial situation, such as previous payments or transfers.

4. Account Aggregation Services

You can also make use of a secure account aggregation service, which is linked to the First Bank account.

Many of them provide accomplished filtering, categorization, and budgeting facilities for your transactions.

5. Use the LIT App

First Bank also operates the LIT app, which is directed towards youths. This evidently wouldn’t have all the features on the main bank app but does give you the ability to download your bank statement.

This is an alternative way to get your transaction history outside the main app.

These alternatives will help you to successfully keep your transaction history on the First Bank app without deleting relevant records.

Always remember to keep accurate records for financial management and regulatory purposes.

How to Download Your Transaction History from First Bank?

Download and view the history of your transactions with First Bank by following the steps listed below:

1. FirstMobile App

  • Downloading and Installing: Install the FirstMobile app on your smartphone. You can get it on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
  • Log in: Open the application and enter your login information. 
  • Go to Transactions: Tap on the ‘Accounts’ menu and select the account for which you want to view the transaction history.
  • View Transaction History: Look for something like ‘Transaction History’ or ‘Account Statement’.
  • Export/Download: An ‘Export’ or ‘Download’ option on your transaction history will be available. Select your preferred format (e.g., PDF, CSV, etc.).

Read Also – UBA Enhances Mobile App, Introduces Transaction Dispute Feature

2. Using FirstOnline Internet Banking

  • Log in: Log in to FirstOnline’s internet banking portal with your credentials.
  • Select Account: Click on the specific account in the section titled ‘Accounts’.
  • Transaction History: Select either “Account Statement” or “Transaction History.” 
  • Download: Choose the date range and download the statement in your preferred format.

3. Visit a Branch

  • Visit a Branch: Visit the nearest First Bank branch.
  • Request Statement: Go to customer service and request your transaction history.
  • Receive Statement: They will either give you a printed copy or mail it to your registered email ID.

These methods will make it easy to access and download your transaction history from First Bank.

How to Request a Transaction History Statement from First Bank?

There are various ways you can obtain a First Bank transaction history statement, depending on your preference and whether you are enrolled in online banking.

1. Obtaining Statements Online (For Existing Online Banking Users)

  • If you’re already enrolled, why not bank online for added convenience? First Bank has electronic statements, better known as E-Statements, available for your use anytime.
  • Look either under “Settings” or “Statements” in online banking, and you most likely will be given the option to enroll in “E-Statements” or “Electronic Statement Delivery.”
  • When you enroll, you can see a transaction history of up to 18 months online. This operates independently of your mailed statements and gives capabilities for real-time rates, fees, and other detailed transaction information.

2. Reach Out to First Bank Directly

  • If you have not registered for online banking yet, or if you want a paper statement, you should notify First Bank. They can be contacted in several ways: 
  • Stop into your local First Bank branch. Branch staff will be more than happy to help you request a paper statement by mail or assist with any further inquiry that you may have.
  • You can also send them an email as their website also includes their email address for added convenience.

Keep in mind that calling your local First Bank branch or visiting their website is always the best way to determine precisely which methods are available in your area. They can best provide the most current information about how to obtain your transaction history statement.

How to Secure Your Transaction History on First Bank?

Since it is not possible to delete transaction history on First Bank mobile app, you can actually secure your transaction history. To secure your transaction history on First Bank, follow the steps below:

  1. Strong login credentials: Always keep unique and complex passwords; add an extra layer with 2FA, if possible and feasible.
  1. Set up account alerts: This will come in handy for unusual transactions and will help in monitoring any large or suspicious activities.
  1. Keep an eye incessantly on your account: Most importantly, keep the record of your transactions clean by checking often so that in case of unauthorized transactions, you can know soon.
  1. Use a secure network: Never log into an account using public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks, as the chance of data interception may be high.
  1. Keep your device and app updated: Ensure that your device and the First Bank app are updated with the latest security patches and updates.
  1. Use a password manager: Use a password manager to safely store your login credentials and to generate strong passwords.
  1. Beware of phishing: There are innumerable cases of phishing where an individual may attempt to elicit your login credentials or other private information.

By taking these steps, to a very great extent, you will be securing your transaction history on First Bank and keeping it safe with financial information. Remember that security works best when it’s a shared responsibility between you and the bank.

Also Read – First Bank USSD Code for Transfer, Loans and Other Transactions

What Should You Do If You Notice Unauthorized Transactions on Your First Bank Account?

Here is what you need to do upon observing an unauthorized transaction on your First Bank account:

  1. Contact First Bank Immediately: You just have to act quickly. Call fraud customer service at First Bank as soon as you realize it, at 1-800-964-3444. They are available 24/7.
  1. Report the Unauthorized Transactions: Notify the customer service personnel of the unauthorized transactions that you have observed. Alert them with the amount of the transaction, date, and merchant (if available).
  1. Freezing Your Account: This will prevent any future cases of an unauthorized transaction. 
  1. Collection of Information (If Required): You may take a few screenshots of those unauthorized transactions in your online banking window or on your cell phone. 
  1. Changes in the Login Details: Please change your online banking username and password on the spot. Use strong passwords; you can use a combination of upper and lower cases, along with special characters and numbers.

Following the steps enumerated above, supplemented with other resources linked, will help you safely address the unauthorized transactions on your account with First Bank and protect your financial resources.

Final Thoughts 

While it’s not possible to delete transaction history on the First Bank mobile app, you can easily hide, filter, or archive old transactions from your view to keep up with the organization and security of your account. 

Remember to always browse through your recent transaction list and check for suspicious activities. If you have any further questions or comments, please do not hesitate to comment below!

For more helpful tips and updates on personal finance and banking follow us on:

Facebook at Silicon Africa

Instagram at Siliconafricatech

Twitter at @Siliconafritech

Frequently Asked Questions 

How long does First Bank keep transaction history?

First Bank, like any other bank, retains its transaction history for multiple years. The number of years the history is retained varies from bank to bank and maybe five, six, or seven based on the policies of the bank and regulate their needs.

Can I clear an entire bank account just to delete the record of transactions?

Not at all. Cleaning up an account is a much bigger task compared to just erasing a piece of your transaction history.

Is there any third-party application that can clear my transaction history?

Avoid third-party apps that promise to remove your bank transaction history. Most of these applications are usually scams or security risks.

What if I need to clear old transaction history for tax purposes?

Even though you can’t remove them from your bank, you usually don’t have to remove old transactions for tax purposes. It is a good idea to be able to keep good records around for filing taxes.

Reference

Recommendations

Share your love
Onyinyechi Ikemefuna
Onyinyechi Ikemefuna

Ikemefuna Onyinyechi Patience, a skilled Content Writer hailing from Anambra State Nigeria, holds a Higher National Degree in microbiology from Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra. Armed with robust research and SEO expertise, she excels in crafting articles spanning technology, finance, healthcare, education, and lifestyle. Her work stands out for its ability to authentically inspire and engage while inciting action. Beyond her writing prowess, Ikemefuna finds joy in reading, exploring movies, and delving into continuous research, contributing to her growth as a proficient writer.

Articles: 230

Newsletter Updates

Enter your email address below and subscribe to our newsletter

Stay informed and not overwhelmed, subscribe now!