Bank Security Token
Recyclable?
Blue Bins & Chutes
Other Recycling
Recommended
eWaste Recycle
According to DBS, these tokens are e-waste and can be disposed of like other e-waste.
UOB and OCBC do not indicate on their websites what to do with them.
Likewise, Alba does not list them as acceptable e-waste. They don't mention them at all.
3-in-1 e-Waste Bins
Alternative
Tips & Suggestions
It is generally considered safe to dispose of old tokens that are no longer functional or have been replaced by virtual tokens, such as a phone app. There are typically no security risks associated with disposing of these tokens.
If you are concerned about security risks, just give the token back to your bank.
Info & Insights
Most of these devices have a little symbol telling you to not put them in the trash. That is likely for safety reasons.
These tokens contain a small lithium battery and some electronic components. But it is mostly plastic: very, very tough plastic.
We tried to take one apart. Even with a lot of damage, it was still working.
Our conclusion is: these will NOT be recycled. It likely costs more to recycle these than the value of the material that would be recovered.
However for safety reasons you are asked to not put it in the trash given the very low but not zero chance that the lithium battery could heat up.
