Many smartphone users Samsung face the need to enter PIN code every time you turn on the device or reboot. This security feature is designed to protect your SIM card from unauthorized use if your phone is stolen, but for many it becomes an unnecessary barrier that slows down access to communications. This is especially annoying if the device is used exclusively by one owner and is stored in a safe place.
The process of disabling this protection on the platform Android in the shell One UI is quite simple, but requires care. Entering the current code incorrectly several times in a row can lead to the SIM card being blocked and the need to enter PUK code, which is more difficult to find. In this article, we will analyze in detail the sequence of actions for models from Galaxy S20 to the latest Galaxy S24so that you can safely remove the password request.
Before you start changing security settings, make sure you know your current one. PIN. Without it, the system will not allow you to make changes to the protection settings. If you have forgotten the code, do not try to guess it multiple times - it is better to immediately refer to the documentation of your telecom operator or to your personal account to restore it via PUK.
Preparing to change security settings
Before entering the settings menu, you need to make sure that the device is stable. Make sure that the SIM card is correctly detected by the system and is displayed in the status bar. If the phone shows the message "No SIM card" or "Insert SIM card", changing the security settings will not be possible until the physical problem with the contacts or the module itself is fixed.
It is also important to understand the difference between screen lock and SIM card lock. Pattern key, fingerprint or Face ID protect access to interface Android, while PIN code it is the telecom operator's chip that protects. Disabling one does not affect the other, so after removing the protection from the SIM card, your phone will still require unlocking when you turn on the display if this function is active.
It is recommended to have on hand a contract with a telecom operator or a card that usually indicated PUK code. This is insurance in case you accidentally enter the wrong current password during the shutdown process. Storing this data in cloud notes or on paper is best digital hygiene practice for owners Samsung.
⚠️ Attention: Never enter random combinations of numbers to guess the PIN code. After three unsuccessful attempts, the SIM card is blocked and an eight-digit PUK code is required to unlock it. Ten incorrect entries of the PUK code lead to irreversible damage to the SIM card.
Searching for the security settings section in One UI
Interface One UI from Samsung has logical structure, but the names of the items may differ slightly depending on the version Android. In most modern models, the path to the desired option is through the main settings menu. Open the notification shade and click on the gear icon to get to the main system configuration section.
You will need to find the category responsible for data protection. It is usually called "Biometrics and Security" or simply "Security". In some firmware for budget models of the series Galaxy A this item may be located inside the "General Settings" section. The parameter you are looking for is always related to encryption and access to equipment.
Use the search function inside the settings menu if you cannot visually find the item. Tap the magnifying glass icon at the top of the Settings screen and search for "SIM" or "Lock." The system will automatically highlight the desired section SIM card lock, which will save your time and eliminate errors when navigating through numerous menu items.
If you cannot find a menu item, use the Bixby or Google Assistant voice assistant by saying the phrase “Open SIM card settings.” This is the fastest way to navigate complex menus.
Once you enter the security section, you will see a list of available options, such as Search for Device, Biometrics, and Encryption. We are interested in access control to the communication module. The status of the current protection is displayed here: whether it is enabled or disabled for each card installed in the slot.
Step-by-step guide for disabling the PIN code
The process of deactivating the password request requires a strict sequence of actions. First go to menu Settings, then select section Biometrics and security. In the list that opens, find the item Other security settings or immediately SIM card blocking, depending on your firmware version.
The screen will display a list of installed SIM cards if you have a dual-SIM device. Select the card for which you want to disable protection. The switch opposite the inscription “SIM Card Lock” must be active (illuminated in blue or green). Click on it to initiate the disconnection process.
The system will ask you to confirm your intentions by requiring you to enter the current one PIN code. This is a critical step: enter the numbers carefully. After clicking the "OK" or "Apply" button, the protection will be removed and the switch will change its position to inactive. Now, when rebooting, the phone will not ask for a password to access the operator’s network.
☑️ Algorithm for disabling protection
If you have two SIM cards installed, the procedure must be repeated for the second slot separately. Settings for SIM 1 and SIM 2 are independent of each other. You can leave protection on one card (for example, work) and remove it on another (personal), if this configuration is more convenient for you.
What to do if you have forgotten the current PIN code
The situation when a user does not remember the previously set password occurs quite often. In this case, the standard shutdown path through the settings becomes unavailable, since the system will not take you beyond the input screen. The only legal way to solve the problem is to use PUK code (PIN Unlocking Key).
PUK code is an eight-digit combination of numbers that is issued by the telecom operator along with the SIM card. It can be found on the plastic card holder from which you broke the chip, or in the service agreement. Also, many operators, such as MTS, MegaFon, Beeline i Tele2, provide the opportunity to find out this code in your personal account on the website or in the mobile application.
To reset a forgotten PIN code via PUK, follow these steps:
- 📱 Enter the wrong PIN code three times in a row until the SIM card is completely blocked.
- 🔓 A field will appear on the screen to enter PUK code.
- 🔢 Enter 8 digits of the PUK code received from the operator.
- 🆕 The system will prompt you to come up with a new one PIN code (4-8 digits).
- ✅ Confirm the new code by re-entering.
After successfully changing the password, you can go to settings and disable the code request using the standard method described above. Be extremely careful: you only have 10 attempts to enter the PUK code. If this limit is reached, the SIM card will be blocked forever, and a visit to the communication store will be required to replace the chip.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use third-party apps from the Internet to unlock the SIM. They do not have access to the protected area of the chip and can only harm the phone's software or steal your personal data.
Setting features for dual-SIM models
Smartphones Samsung with support for two physical SIM cards or one physical and one eSIM have an extended management menu. In such devices, it is important to clearly distinguish which slot you are configuring. An error may lead to you disabling protection on the wrong card, leaving the second one locked.
In the menu SIM Card Manager you can not only manage passwords, but also assign default cards for calls and mobile data. When disabling the PIN code, the system may request confirmation for each active card separately. This is done to prevent accidental changes to the settings of critical communication lines.
If you are using technology eSIM, the process is similar to working with a physical card, but deleting an eSIM profile automatically resets all security settings for it. When re-activating the profile, the password request may return to the operator's factory settings if they require mandatory protection.
| Lock type | Code length | Input attempts | Where to find the unlock key |
|---|---|---|---|
| PIN code | 4-8 digits | 3 attempts | Created by the user |
| PUK code | 8 digits | 10 attempts | With the telecom operator (contract, application) |
| PUK2 code | 8 digits | 10 attempts | With the operator (for special functions) |
| Pin2 | 4-8 digits | 3 attempts | Specified by the user (rarely used) |
Why do we need PUK2 and Pin2?
These codes are used to access advanced SIM card functions, such as fixed dialing or changing the tariff through the phone menu. They are practically not used in modern smartphones and tariffs, but are technically present in the chip.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the lock switch is inactive (gray) and cannot be pressed. This may mean that the SIM card is not currently active or the phone does not see the network. Check that the card is installed correctly in the tray and try rebooting the device before trying to change the settings again.
Another common problem is the "Invalid PIN" message when entering what you think is the correct combination. You may be using a code from another SIM card or have lost the keys when entering. Double-check the numbers carefully. If you are sure of the code, but the phone does not accept it, the input interface may have been temporarily blocked - wait 30 seconds and try again.
In rare cases, after updating the firmware One UI security settings may be confused or not work correctly. If the shutdown button does not respond, try clearing the Settings application cache through the menu Applications in the App Informationsection. This will not delete your data, but it will update the menu configuration.
⚠️ Attention: The menu interface and item layout may change with new versions of Android and Samsung security updates. If you do not find this option, check the current path in the official help on the manufacturer's website for your specific model.
Disabling the PIN code does not reduce the overall security of the smartphone if you have a reliable screen lock method installed (fingerprint, face or complex password).
Effect of disabling device security password
By removing the request PIN code when turned on, you simplify access to the phone, but theoretically reduce the level of protection of the SIM card. If an attacker steals your switched off phone, he will be able to remove the SIM card, insert it into another device and use your number to receive SMS with confirmation codes from banks or instant messengers.
However, if a reliable one is installed on the smartphone itself unlock password and data encryption is enabled, the thief will not will be able to access applications that require these SMS without unlocking Android itself. For most users who do not leave the phone unattended in dangerous places, the convenience of quickly turning it on outweighs this theoretical risk.
It is worth noting that modern smartphones Samsung with processors Exynos or Snapdragon have hardware encryption. Even if the SIM card is removed, the data on the device remains inaccessible. Therefore, the decision to disable the PIN should be based on your personal balance between convenience and security paranoia.
For the greatest balance of security and convenience, leave the PIN enabled, but use the Smart Lock feature. It will prevent the phone from asking for a password when it is in your home or connected to your Galaxy Watch.
Restoring default settings
If you change your mind and decide to return the protection back, the process is completely mirrored. Go to the same section SIM card blocking and activate the switch. The system will ask you to come up with a new PIN code. It is recommended not to use simple combinations like “1111”, “0000” or “1234”, as they can be easily selected by brute force.
Come up with a code that is easy for you to remember, but difficult for someone else to guess. Write it down in a safe place immediately after installation. After enabling protection, the phone will ask for this code the next time it reboots. This ensures that even if you lose your device, your number will not be used for other people's purposes.
Remember that changing the SIM card settings does not require an Internet connection, since all checks occur locally on the phone's security chip. You can perform these actions even in airplane mode, if the SIM card is physically present in the device and is not blocked remotely by the operator.
Is it possible to disable the PIN code if the phone is already locked?
No, you can only change security settings from an unlocked system. If your phone is turned off and asks for a code when you turn it on, you won't have access to the settings menu until you enter the correct PIN. In case of a forgotten code, use the reset procedure via PUK.
Will disabling the PIN code reset my contacts?
No, contacts saved on the SIM card or in the phone memory will remain in place. Disabling the password only affects the authentication procedure of the communication module at system startup and does not affect user data.
Why does the phone ask for a PUK code instead of a PIN?
This means that you entered the wrong PIN code three times. The system automatically blocked the SIM card to prevent hacking. To unlock, you must enter a unique PUK code, which is provided only by the telecom operator.
Does disabling the PIN affect the operation of mobile banking?
There is no direct impact. Bank applications run within the Android operating system. However, if the phone is stolen while it is turned off, attackers can insert a SIM card into another phone and intercept the SMS to enter the bank if you do not have a password for the device itself.
Is it possible to set different PIN codes for two SIM cards?
Yes, each SIM card has its own independent PIN code. You can configure them individually in the SIM card management menu, setting different combinations of numbers for each slot.