Last week, my current account with Barclays was suddenly frozen without warning. I only found out when a card payment declined and I was unable to log into online banking. After calling customer services, I was told the account had been locked due to an issue with a recent automated identity verification check, apparently something flagged during a routine review.
I was advised to go into a local branch with ID to resolve it, which I did the next morning. I brought my passport and utility bill, but the staff said they couldn't verify me fully and that the matter had been escalated. Since then, it’s been over a week, and the account is still frozen. I can't access my wages, pay bills, or buy essentials. I’ve called multiple times, but all I get is that it's under review and someone will call me back.
Are banks allowed to freeze accounts like this without prior notice?
I was advised to go into a local branch with ID to resolve it, which I did the next morning. I brought my passport and utility bill, but the staff said they couldn't verify me fully and that the matter had been escalated. Since then, it’s been over a week, and the account is still frozen. I can't access my wages, pay bills, or buy essentials. I’ve called multiple times, but all I get is that it's under review and someone will call me back.
Are banks allowed to freeze accounts like this without prior notice?

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