Searching for a PUK code so you can change the PIN on your SIM card? First of all, what is the PUK code exactly? PUK or Personal Unblocking Key, allows you to modify the default 4-digit PIN code required to enable the SIM card functionality. Additionally, it is used to unlock the phone when you enter the PIN number incorrectly 3 times in a row. Yes, you can use the default PIN after you insert the card into the SIM card slot, and turn the phone on, but this puts you at risk. With that in mind, here”s how to find PUK code on a SIM card so you can make your phone safer immediately.
Steps to find PUK code on a SIM card
1. Check the full-size SIM card you received
This is the easiest and fastest way to locate your PUK. Regardless if it’s a prepaid SIM card or a postpaid SIM card, they are identical in shape and SIM card size – that of a full-size SIM card or mini-SIM card. The PUK will consist of 7 or 8 digits, depending on the country and the carrier, and will be printed on the card itself.
There is no standardized location, though. It is most often located on the back of the card, underneath the SIM card you punched out. Be aware that the PUK code is hidden behind a film you have to scratch out with your nails, key, dull knife, or whatever you have at hand.
2. Log in to your carrier’s website
Instead of printing the numbers for everyone to see, carriers started hiding them behind an online account panel for subscribers. We, obviously. cannot list every carrier in the world. Luckily, the steps are pretty similar.
Finding PUK code on Vodafone
- Log in to My Vodafone.
Use your username and password. - Click on Login.
- Go to the Services – SIM card and mobile phones section of the user account panel.
- Choose PIN/PUK Service.
- You will see a PIN, PIN2, PUK, and PUK2 numbers.
PIN2 and PUK2 are default numbers programmed on the SIM card. They might be the last resort when you change your PIN but forget the PUK number to reset it.
Finding PUK code on AT&T
- Log in to myAT&T.
Use your User ID and password. - Click on Sign in.
- Go to the account overview.
- Click on the section named My wireless.
- Scroll down and find My devices & add-ons.
- Click on the device that you are using.
- Select Manage my device.
- Click on See device options.
- Click on Get your PIN unlock key (PUK).
3. Call Customer Support or go to the store
This is always an option if you prefer to leave things to the professionals. They will provide the code and guide you over the phone, or tell you to come to the nearest store and sort things out for you.
What happens if I can’t enter my PUK Code?
It is almost a universal rule that if you enter your PUK code incorrectly for 10 times in a row, it will cause the SIM card to not work permanently. In that case, you will need to contact your carrier and have a new SIM card sent.