How to change the PIN code on an Android SIM card: 5 proven methods

Have you forgotten your SIM card PIN code or want to set a more reliable one? Changing the SIM card access code on Android is a simple procedure that takes no more than a minute if you know the correct algorithm. However, many users encounter difficulties: in some places the menu is hidden in deep settings, in others it is required to enter the old PIN, and in some cases the operator blocks independent changes. In this article we will look at all current methods changing the PIN code - from the standard path through the phone settings to alternative methods with USSD requests and operator applications.

It is important to understand that the PIN code of a SIM card is not the same as a pattern or screen unlock password. It protects not the smartphone itself, but access to the mobile network. Without the correct PIN, you will not be able to make calls, use the mobile data or send SMS. At the same time, Android does not store this code in its memory - it is registered directly on the SIM card chip. This means that you can change it even without an Internet connection, but at the same time some operators (for example, Tele2 or Yota) may limit the number of entry attempts or require confirmation through your personal account.

If you have never changed your PIN code after purchasing a SIM card, most likely You will receive a standard code from the operator. For most Russian providers, these are combinations like 0000, 1111 or 1234. But using them is extremely unsafe - if you lose your phone, an attacker can easily gain access to your mobile communications. Next, we will show you how to set a reliable PIN and what to do if you have forgotten the old one.

1. Standard method: changing the PIN code through Android settings

The most universal method that works regardless of the manufacturer - be it all smartphones regardless of the manufacturer - be it Samsung Galaxy S24, Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 or Google Pixel 8. The interface may differ slightly depending on the version Android (12, 13 or 14), but the general principle remains the same. The main condition: you must have the PIN code request enabled when you start the phone. If this feature is disabled, first enable it in the security settings.

To change the SIM card PIN through system settings:

1. Open “Settings” (gear icon in the application menu or notification panel).
2. Go to section Security or Lock screen and security (on some devices it may be called Protection and privacy).
3. Find item Other security settings → SIM card lock setting (or simply SIM card PIN code).
4. Enter current PIN code (if it is not known, see section about recovery below).
5. Select the option Change SIM card PIN code.
6. Enter a new code (usually requires 4-8 digits, no letters or symbols).
7. Confirm the changes by re-entering.

On some firmware (for example, on MIUI from Xiaomi or ColorOS from Oppo) the path may look like this: Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → SIM card settings → SIM card lock. If you don’t find the item you need, use the search in settings (magnifying glass icon in the upper corner).

Make sure the SIM card is active and not blocked

You know the current PIN code (or the standard one from the operator)

The phone is connected to the network (not necessary, but will help to avoid errors)

The new PIN code is written down in a safe place (not stored in the phone notes!)-->

2. changing the PIN code (alternative method)

If for some reason the settings menu is not available (for example, due to a firmware failure or corporate policy restrictions), you can try changing the PIN using USSD requestsThis method does not work for all operators, but is supported by most Russian providers: MTS, Beeline, MegaFon And Tele2. The main advantage is that you don’t need to look for a menu in the settings, just enter a special code.

Instructions for using USSD:

• 📱 Open the “Phone” application (dialer).
• 🔢 Go to the tab for dialing a number.
• 📝 Enter one of the commands (depending on the operator):

Operator	USSD command to change PIN	Notes
MTS	*111*123#	After entering, follow the voice prompts
Beeline	*110*123#	Requires confirmation via SMS
MegaFon	*105*123#	Works only for individuals
Tele2	*155*123#	May require entering passport data

⚠️ Attention: USSD commands may change without warning If the code does not work, check the current command. on the official website of your operator or through the support service (0890 for MTS, 0611 for Beeline etc.).

MTS

Beeline

MegaFon

Tele2

Yota/Other-->

3. Changing the PIN code through the app. operator

Many mobile operators offer their own applications for managing tariffs and services. In some of them, you can change the SIM card PIN code without having to go through the phone settings. This method is convenient if you often travel or use an eSIM - a virtual SIM card, where standard methods may not work.

Examples of applications and instructions:

• 🔴 My MTS: Profile → SIM settings → Security → Change PIN.
• 🟢 My Beeline: Services → SIM card → PIN management.
• 🔵 MegaFon-Service: Personal account → My devices → SIM settings.
• 🟡 My Tele2: requires confirmation via SMS or a call to support.

The advantage of this method is that you can change the PIN even on someone else's phone - just log in to the application using your number. However not all operators provide this option.. For example, Yota for example, some virtual operators (like Tinkoff Mobilemay require contacting support.

4. What to do if you forgot the PIN code of the SIM card

The situation when a user forgets a PIN code happens more often than it seems. According to operator statistics, about 15% of support calls are related to this problem. If you entered the wrong PIN three times in a row, the SIM card will require you to enter a PUK code (Personal Unblocking Key). This code is usually indicated on the plastic holder that came with it. included with the SIM card. If it is not there, you will have to restore it. will be automatically blocked and will require you to enter a PUK code (Personal Unblocking Key). This code is usually indicated on the plastic holder that came with the SIM card. If it is not there, you will have to restore it.

Algorithm of actions when blocking:

1. Find the PUK code:
   • 📄 Check the packaging of the SIM card (usually 8 digits).
   • 📧 If there is no packaging, look for a letter from the operator upon activation (for eSIM).
   • 📞 Call operator support from another number (passport will be required).
2. Enter PUK:
   • When prompted for a PIN code on the lock screen, tap “Unlock with PUK.”
   • Enter the 8-digit PUK, then set a new PIN.

If the PUK is lost:

• Contact the service center with your passport - you will be given a new SIM card with the same number.
• For corporate numbers, administrator permission may be required.

⚠️ Attention: If you enter the wrong PUK code 10 times in a row, the SIM card will be permanently blocked will have to be changed. No apps or hacks will help restore it - this is hardware blocking at the chip level.

Is it possible to bypass the PIN code without a PUK?

Technically, there is a method using the engineering menu (##4636##), but it only works on older versions of Android (up to 8.0) and requires root access. On modern smartphones (Android 12+) this method is irrelevant due to enhanced protection. The only legal way out is to contact the operator.

5. Features of changing the PIN code on different versions of Android

Depending on the version of the operating system and the manufacturer's shell, the process of changing the PIN code may have nuances. For example, on Android 14 (2023–2026) a function appeared - now you can unlock access to the network with a fingerprint or face without entering a PIN each time. However, the procedure for changing the code itself remains the same. biometric authentication for SIM — you can now unlock access to the network with your fingerprint or face without entering a PIN each time. However, the procedure for changing the code itself remains the same.

Differences by version:

Android version	Features of changing PIN	Examples devices
Android 10–11	The menu is hidden in Settings → Security → Advanced	Samsung Galaxy S20, Xiaomi Mi 10
Android 12–13	Quick access via search in settings has appeared	Google Pixel 6, OnePlus 9
Android 14	Biometrics support for SIM unlocking	Samsung Galaxy S24, Xiaomi 14

On devices with MIUI (for example, Redmi or POCO), you may need to disable the "Application Protection" feature if it blocks access to SIM settings. On Samsung with shell One UI the path is simplified: Settings → Connections → SIM card manager → SIM lock.

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On Android 14 i newer, you can enable the “Unlock SIM by fingerprint” option so as not to enter the PIN manually. But changing the code itself still requires manual entry.

6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

When trying to change the PIN code, users often encounter typical problems. Here are the most common of them and how to solve them:

• ❌ Error “Invalid PIN” when entering for the first time:

  Most likely, you are entering the wrong code. Try standard combinations (0000, 1234) or check the documents from the SIM card. If it doesn’t help, contact your operator.

• ❌ There is no PIN change menu:

  Perhaps your SIM card does not support this function (relevant for some virtual operators). An alternative is USSD commands or the operator's application.

• ❌ After changing the PIN, the phone asks for it again:

  This is normal - the new code takes effect immediately. Just enter it again.

• ❌ The SIM card was blocked after 3 incorrect attempts:

  Use the PUK code (see section 4). If it is not there, just replace the SIM at the communication store.

Another common problem is crash after firmware update. Sometimes, after upgrading to a new version Android SIM settings are reset, and the phone begins to require a PIN, although it did not exist before. In this case: Failure after firmware update data-i="196">7. Security: how to come up with a reliable PIN code

1. Try entering the standard PIN (0000).
2. If it doesn't work, contact your operator for restoration.
3. After unlocking, disable the PIN request in the settings (if not needed).

7. Security: how to come up with a reliable PIN code

Many users do not take the SIM card PIN seriously enough, setting simple combinations like 1234 or date of birth. This is dangerous: if your phone is stolen, an attacker can easily gain access to your mobile connection, and with it, SMS with confirmation codes from banks and social networks. Follow these rules when choosing a PIN code:

• 🔐 Length: minimum 6 digits (if the operator supports it).
• 🎲 Random: avoid repeating numbers (1111) and sequences (1234).
• 📅 No personal information: do not use dates of birth, last digits of the phone number.
• 📱 Does not match the pattern key: SIM PIN and screen unlock password must be different.

It is better to store the PIN code in password manager (for example, Google Password Manager or KeePass) than in the phone notes or on a piece of paper. If you are afraid of forgetting, write down a hint (for example, “SIM PIN = mom’s first phone + 1”), but not the code itself.

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To check the reliability of your PIN code, imagine whether a person who knows your date of birth and phone number can guess it. If so, change it urgently!

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Can I change it? PIN code on a locked SIM card?

No, you first need to unlock it using the PUK code. Only after this the PIN change function will become available.

How many digits should be in the PIN code?

The standard PIN consists of 4 digits, but some operators (for example, MegaFon) support extended codes up to 8 characters. The longer, the more reliable.

Will the old SIM card work after changing the PIN?

Yes, changing the PIN code does not affect the physical condition card. It will remain working if you do not exceed the limit of incorrect entries.

Is it possible to disable the PIN code request when turning on the phone?

Yes, in the security settings you can deactivate the “SIM card blocking” option, but this will reduce the protection of your number.

What to do if the operator does not support the change. PIN via USSD?

Use the standard method through the phone settings or contact the communication store. Virtual operators (like Tinkoff Mobile) often limit this function.