Protecting your personal data on a smartphone starts with basic security measures, and one of them is installing it. PIN-code SIM-On Xiaomi Redmi devices, this feature is implemented through standard Android settings, but has its own nuances depending on the version. MIUI Many users neglect this option, considering it unnecessary, but losing or stealing the phone without protection. SIM This may result in unauthorized use of your phone number, SMS-Fraud or even interception of two-factor authentication.
In this article, we will discuss how to activate PIN-When you turn on your phone or after you restart, what Redmi models support this feature, and what to do if you forget your password. PIN-code (4-8 numbers PUK-code (8 And we'll also explain why mobile operators default to disabling this protection. 12, Redmi 10 Or another popular model, the instructions are suitable for you.
Why put a password on SIM-map: real risks
Most users believe that locking the screen of a smartphone (via a pattern lock, fingerprint or Face). ID) It's pretty protective of their data, though. SIM-The map remains a vulnerable link:
- π± Phone theft: Even if the phone is locked, an attacker can extract SIM-use it on another device for making calls or SMS (For example, to confirm payments).
- π³ Bank account fraud: many banks link transaction confirmation to a phone number. PIN-code SIM crook SMS coded.
- π Interception of two-factor authentication (2FA): if you use SMS to confirm the login to accounts (Google, Vkontakte, Telegram), access to SIM It gives you access to your profiles.
- π‘ Unauthorized connection to the mobile network: without PIN-The code of anyone who owns yours. SIM, You can use your service (Internet, minutes, SMS).
According to Kaspersky Lab, in 2023, more than 30% of bank card fraud cases were related to interception. SMS. Activation. PIN-code SIM-The card reduces this risk to a minimum, because without it, the card becomes useless for attackers. PIN-The code is hidden in the depths of the settings menu, and many users do not even suspect its existence.
What Xiaomi Redmi models support protection SIM-password-card
Installation function PIN-code SIM-The card is available on all Xiaomi Redmi,Released smartphones after 2018, regardless of the version MIUI. But there are nuances:
| Model Redmi | Support PIN-code | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12/12 Pro/12 Pro+ | Yes. | MIUI 14+: Dual-SIM support with individual PIN for each card |
| Redmi 10/10A/10C | Yes. | Version. MIUI 13: Security menu SIM hidden in "Additional settings" |
| Redmi 9/9A/9C/9T | Yes. | Some firmware requires an update to MIUI 12.5+ |
| Redmi Note 11/11S/11 Pro | Yes. | Support for eSIM (in some markets) + physical SIM s PIN |
| Redmi 8/8A/8A Dual | Yes. | Old versions MIUI: Possible bugs in the change SIM off-line PIN |
If your model is not listed in the table, it does not mean that the feature is not available. Any Android smartphone (and Xiaomi Redmi is no exception) supports protection. SIM-Password cards are standard operating system options, except for devices with eSIM (virtual). SIM-map where the settings may differ, for example on the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G For some operators (elike MTS or Beeline), eSIM is configured through the operatorβs application, rather than through system settings.
β οΈ Note: On smartphones with two SIM-cards (Dual-SIM) PIN-The code is set up separately for each card. SIM, Make sure you protect both of them!
Step-by-step instruction: how to turn on PIN-code SIM-map
The process of activating protection SIM-Xiaomi Redmi cards are no more than 2-3 Follow the instructions below and yours SIM It will be protected from unauthorized access.
Step 1. Open your phone settings
On the home screen, find the Settings icon (cog) or swipe down from the top edge of the screen and tap the settings icon in the notification bar. On some models (like the Redmi Note 10 Pro), you can use a voice assistant: say OK, Google, open the settings.
Step 2. Go to section "SIM-maps and mobile networks"
In the settings menu, scroll down and select the item:
Settings β SIM- Maps and Mobile NetworksOn some versions MIUI (For example, 12.5) this section may be referred to as Mobile Network or Dual Network. SIM mobile.
Step 3. Choose SIM-card (if there are several)
If your Redmi supports two of your SIM-maps, you will see two tabs: SIM 1 and SIM 2. Touch the one you want to include PIN-The screen will display information about the operator, phone number and connection status.
Step 4: Activate the request PIN-code
Find the Block option SIM-card or request PIN-code and transfer the slider to the position On.The system immediately prompts you to enter the current PIN-code (if previously installed) or create a new code.
Make sure that SIM-The card is active and recognized by the phone
Remember or write down the standard PIN (usually 0000 or 1234)
Check what you have. PUK-code (on the card from SIM)
Disable automatic software updates at the time of setting up-->
Step 5. Enter a new one. PIN-code
If PIN-The code is installed for the first time, the system can request a standard PIN (It's usually 0000, 1111, or 1234, depending on the operator:
- π’ Use 4-8 digits (most operators support 4-digit codes).
- π Do not use simple combinations like 1234 or 0000.
- π Write the code to a secure location (for example, a password manager).
- π« Do not use date of birth or repeating numbers (1122, 1212).
Step 6: Confirm and restart the phone
Once you save the settings, the system will ask you to restart the phone. Do this so that the changes take effect. PIN-unlockable SIM-map.
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If you're afraid to forget PIN-code, take a photo of the back of the card on which the SIM (there's usually PUK standard PIN). Store your photos in a secure cloud, such as Google Photos, with access only for you.
What to do if you forgot PIN-code SIM-map
Forgotten PIN-code is one of the most common problems. If you typed the wrong code three times, SIM-The card will be blocked and you will need to unlock it. PUK-Personal Unblocking Key: This is what you can do:
Method 1: Find out. PUK-card SIM
Usually. PUK-The code is on the plastic card from which you extracted the SIM. It consists of 8 digits and is located next to PIN-If there's no card, check it:
- π The envelope or box in which it was SIM.
- π§ Letter from the operator (if) SIM ordered online).
- π± SMS from the operator when activating the card (sometimes) PUK send out).
Method 2: Get it. PUK via the operator's personal account
If you do not have a physical card, use your operatorβs online services:
- π MTS: Personal account β "My services" β "Management SIM".
- π Beeline: My Beeline β "Settings SIM".
- π MegaFon: Personal Cabinet β "SIM-map".
- π Tele2: My Tele2 β "Information on SIM".
In most cases, PUK-The code can be seen in the section "Information about SIM-card or request it via support chat.
Method 3: Contact the Salon of Communication
If none of these methods worked, visit your operator's official salon with your passport.
- π Unlock. SIM-card (if) PUK Incorrectly entered 10 times, the card is permanently blocked!).
- π Issue a new SIM same number (free or for a small fee).
β οΈ Note: If you enter incorrectly 10 times PUK-code, SIM-The card will be permanently blocked, and it will have to be replaced with a new one in the operator's cabin, and no software or hacks will be able to restore access!
What happens if you enter? PUK-code?
Differences PIN-code PUK other forms of protection
Many users are confused PIN-code, PUK-The lock screen code and password, and let's see how they differ and what they're responsible for:
| Type of code | Appointment | Length | Where it's stored | What happens when you lock it down? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PIN-code | Protection SIM-Cards against unauthorized use | 4-8 digits | Nana SIM-map | After 3 incorrect attempts, it is required PUK |
| PUK-code | Unlocking SIM post-input PIN | 8 digits | On the card from SIM or | After 10 Failed Trials SIM lockdown |
| Screen password | Protection of access to the phone (pattern lock, numbers, print) | 4+ symbolism | In the memory of the phone | After 5β30 wrong attempts, lock or reset |
| Unlocking code Mi Account | Xiaomi account protection (linked to phone) | Login. + password | In the cloud Xiaomi | Locking the phone when incorrectly entered (reset required) |
It is important to understand that PIN-code SIM-The cards and the lock screen password are two different things, like if you block the Redmi screen with a pattern lock, but you don't set it. PIN on SIM, If you take the card out and you put it on another phone, the attacker can use your number, and vice versa: PIN on SIM It is on, but the phone screen is not locked, access to calls and SMS limited.
Xiaomi Redmi also has an additional protection, the Mi Account, which if you activate it, after resetting, the phone will request Xiaomi account details. PIN-code SIM, Mi Accounts only protect the phone, not the mobile network.
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PIN-code SIM-The only protection against using your phone number on another device is the cards, SIM without PIN vulnerable!
Frequent problems and their solutions
When you set up PIN-code SIM-Xiaomi Redmi users face common mistakes. Let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.
Problem 1: The input is not working PIN-post-reboot
If, after activation, PIN-If the phone does not ask for it when it is turned on, check it:
- π Restart your phone again β sometimes the changes donβt apply immediately.
- πΆ Make sure that SIM-The card is recognized (the operatorβs network should be displayed in the settings).
- π§ Settings menu β Annexes β Find all the apps and find the phone and SIM-Manager, then clear the cache.
Problem 2: The phone asks for PIN, but the keyboard doesn't show up.
This error occurs on Redmi with custom firmware or after the update MIUI. Decision:
- Connect your phone to your PC and with ADB Adb shell settings put global settings sim_pin_entry_enabled 1
- Or reset network settings: Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Resetting network settings
Problem 3: SIM-The card is not determined after inclusion PIN
If, after activation, PIN phone stopped seeing SIM, possibly:
- π Contacts SIM-Cards are contaminated (wipe them with a soft cloth).
- π SIM Incorrectly installed (remove and re-insert).
- π± Phone firmware is damaged (try to update) MIUI through settings β The phone. β Updating the system).
Problem 4: I can't turn off the request PIN-code
If you decide to remove the protection, but the option is Block SIM-card-inactive:
- Make sure you enter the correct current PIN.
- Check if there are restrictions in place through Mi Account (e.g. parental controls).
- Reset security settings: Settings β Memory and backup copies β Resetting settings β Resetting network settings
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After inclusion PIN-When the phone starts to load more slowly, turn off the fast boot in the developer settings. β The phone. β Version. MIUI (Press 7 times, then in Settings. β Additionally. β For developers β Quick boot and turn it off.