A PUK code is unique for every SIM card from a carrier. It is used when the SIM card is blocked temporarily due to incorrect entry of the SIM PIN three times continuously. If you are a SMART or Talk ‘N Text SIM card user, it is very easy to get yours. You can likely find the PUK code for a SMART SIM on the back of the casing or kit. If you have your SIM card’s casing you can check there first.
Should it be there, you’ll see two codes: PUK 1 and PUK 2. On the same side, you will see two PIN codes as well, i.e., PIN 1 and PIN2. PUK 1 is used for unblocking your PIN 1 and the PUK 2 is used for unblocking PIN 2. But what if you lose the SIM card casing? How will you find the PUK code for Your SMART SIM? In our article, you will learn the answer in detail.
Get PUK by calling the SMART IVR service
Because your SMART SIM is blocked you can’t make a call to the SMART helpline number from it. Hence, you will need to use some other phone or SIM. Follow the steps below to get your PUK code.
- Either call *888 from a SMART cellphone or call (02) 888 1111 from a landline phone.
- Follow the voice prompts on the IVR.
- If your blocked SMART SIM is postpaid, choose the “Aftersales” option and then select the “PUK Release” one.
- If your blocked SMART SIM is prepaid, select the “Account” option and then select the “PUK Inquiry” one.
- Enter your blocked SIM card’s cell phone number and its ICCID number (also called SIM number). An ICCID number is generally a 16-digit number printed on the back of the SIM card.
- Once all the information you have entered is validated, the IVR will dictate your PUK 1 and PUK 2 codes.
- Note. It is better to jot them down on a piece of paper or a secure notes application for future reference.
Use the SMART official web portal to find the PUK code
If you have access to the internet, and you are already logged in to your SMART account on the official website of SMART, then it will be very convenient for you to get your PUK code. But this method might not work if you are not already logged in to your SMART account. That’s because, if you try to log in with your blocked SIM card’s cell phone number, it may ask for an OTP (One Time Password). Because access to your SIM is prohibited, you cannot receive one. With that said, here are the steps to find out what your PUK code is using the official website of SMART.
- Visit the official website of SMART.
- Register or log in to your account. Registration is free.
- After logging in, link your SMART mobile number to your account.
- Click the Manage button for the account you want to activate the settings.
- Click the Inquiries tab.
- Select the PUK Code Inquiry option.
- Enter the ICCID number of your blocked SIM card. This is the 16-digit number printed on the rear of the SIM card.
- Once the ICCID number is validated, PUK 1 and PUK 2 codes will appear on your screen.
- We recommend doing the same as in step 7 above.
Get PUK by dialing the SMART helpline number
Again, because your SMART SIM is blocked you can’t use it to make a call to the SMART helpline. Therefore, we propose you borrow a SMART SIM card/phone from a friend or relative. Then follow the instructions given below.
- Call *888 from the SMART number.
- Follow the instructions on the IVR and choose the relevant options over the voice prompts until you are given the option to speak to a customer care representative.
- When you are on call with the individual, tell them your concern regarding the blocked SIM. Remind them you need PUK to unblock it.
- The agent will ask for the 16-digit ICCID number located in the same place as in step 7 above. Provide them with the ICCID/SIM number.
- After the ICCID number confirmation, the agent will give you the PUK code. Note it down somewhere safe.
- Enter the PUK code, and it will ask you to set a new PIN. Remember the PIN should be easy to remember for you but hard to guess for others.
It is recommended to disable the PIN lock to avoid all the hassle. If you decide to keep the SIM PIN lock, it’s important to remember that your SMART SIM card will get blocked permanently if you enter the wrong PUK five times continuously. After that, you will have no other option but to replace your old SIM card with a new one your carrier provides.