How to put a password on SIM-map in smartphones Xiaomi with MIUI 12: Protection from fraudsters

The protection of personal data in modern smartphones begins with basic security measures, and the password for the user is not. SIM-In the age of digital fraud and data breaches, even a simple lockdown is one of them. SIM It can save you from unauthorized calls, SMS-Spam or theft of funds through mobile banking.Smartphones Xiaomi based MIUI 12 offer built-in tools for this task, but many users don’t know how to use them properly.

In this article, we will analyze not only step-by-step installation instructions. PIN-code SIM-map, but also tell about the nuances of the function in MIUI 12, typical errors in setting up, as well as give recommendations for choosing a strong password, we will pay special attention to compatibility with different operators (MTS, Beeline, Tele2, MegaFon) and how to avoid blocking SIM If you've ever lost your phone or worried about the security of your data, this is the stuff for you.

Why put a password on SIM-map?

Many users mistakenly believe that locking the screen of a smartphone (PIN, faceprint ID) It's completely protecting their data. SIM-The card remains vulnerable: it can be retrieved and used in another device, accessed by the user. SMS (And that includes confirmation codes for banking transactions, or even call history, and that's the key reason to activate security:

• 🔒 Protection against theft: no PIN-The attacker will not be able to use your SIM-card-on-phone.
• 💳 Financial security: Many banks link transaction confirmation to SMS — lockdown SIM It will make it harder to access your accounts.
• 📱 Compatibility with corporate policies: some companies require employees to protect their employees SIM-Cards (for example, when using service phones).
• 🔄 Protection when selling/transferring your phone: even after resetting your settings SIM-The card may contain confidential information.

It is important to understand that MIUI 12 does not block access to SIM-The default card is that you have to manually activate this feature, but unlike the newer versions. MIUI (13+), 12th version of the configuration interface PIN-The code may vary depending on the smartphone model (e.g. Redmi Note 9 vs Mi). 10T). It is also worth considering that some operators (for example, Tele2) default to set the standard. PIN (For example, 0000 or 1234, which is easy to choose from.

Preparation: What to Know Before Setup

Before setting the password to SIM-Map, check out a few key points:

1. Find out the current one. PIN-If you've never changed it, it's probably the standard operator code (usually 0000, 1111 or 1234). SIM-map.
2. Check compatibility. Some virtual carriers (e.g. Yota or Tinkoff Mobile) may not support the change. PIN-code via the phone menu – you will need to contact support.
3. Have your hand on it. PUK-You'll need it if you type incorrect code 3 times in a row. PIN. PUK usually indicated on the plastic holder SIM-card or in a contract with the operator.

Please note that after activation PIN-And you have to type it every time you turn on your phone or reboot it, and it might seem inconvenient, but for the sake of security, you have to put up with a little bit of time. If you reboot your device frequently (for example, for software testing), consider alternative security methods, such as AppLock for individual applications.

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If you're afraid to forget PIN-Write it in a safe place (for example, in the password manager Xiaomi Cloud or Google Password Manager), but do not store it on the most secure location. SIM-map or phone notes!

Step-by-step: how to put a password on SIM-map MIUI 12

The setup process is the same for most Xiaomi models on MIUI 12 (Redmi Note 8 Pro, Mi 9, POCO X3, etc.), but there may be minor differences in the layout of menu items.

1. Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen).
2. Go to the Passwords and Security section.
3. Select the Settings item SIM-Cards (in some firmware, it may be called Security) SIM-map).
4. Slip on the SIM-card lock line (or Set PIN).
5. Turn on the Request switch PIN-code.
6. Enter the current one. PIN-Code (default or previous code).
7. Think of it and enter a new one. PIN-code (from 4 to 8 digits).
8. Confirm the new one. PIN-re-entry.

Once you save the settings, the phone may request a reboot. Once you turn on, you'll be prompted to enter a new one. PIN-code.

Make sure that SIM-card active (there is a network)

Record a new PIN in a safe place

Check that PUK-code-in-hand

Set a change reminder PIN once-in-a-lifetime-->

How to choose a reliable PIN-code SIM-map

Many users make the critical mistake of setting simple combinations like 1234, 0000 or dates of birth. PIN-The codes are broken in seconds. Follow these rules when you choose:

• 🔢 Avoid repeating numbers (e.g. 1111 or 1212).
• 📅 Do not use dates (birthday, anniversaries, etc.).
• 🔄 Don't duplicate. PIN card-wise.
• 📱 Do not use part of the phone number (for example, the last 4 digits).

The best option is a random combination of 6-8 digits that you can remember, such as the first digits of your passport number + your favorite number. If you are afraid to forget, use a password manager (for example, Bitwarden or built-in Mi Security).

What to do if you forgot PIN-code SIM-map

If you've entered an infidel PIN-code 3 times, SIM-The card is locked and you will need to unlock it. PUK-Personal Unblocking Key (PIS) is a code that can be found:

• 📄 On a plastic holder. SIM-Cards (where they were inserted when buying).
• 📑 In a contract with a communications operator (usually in the section "Data" SIM-map").
• 📞 Operator support (passport required to verify identity).

To unlock the SIM:

1. When a message appears "SIM-Card locked" press Unblock.
2. Enter the 16-digit PUK-code (without spaces).
3. Install a new one. PIN-code.

⚠️ Note: If you enter the incorrect 10 times in a row PUK-code, SIM-The card will be permanently locked and will have to be changed in the operator's cabin!

If you lost PUK-- do not try to guess it - immediately contact the operator. Some communication salons (for example, Svyaznoy or Euronet) can restore access in 10-15 minutes with a passport.

Common Problems and Their Solutions

When you set up PIN-code SIM-map MIUI 12 users experience common errors, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them:

If none of the solutions worked, try resetting the network settings (Settings). → SIM-maps and mobile networks → It's not going to delete your data, but it's going to bring the network back to the factory settings. -hard Reset (complete phone reset), but only use it if other methods have not worked.

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After the update MIUI up to 12.5 or 13 item "Blocking" SIM-The maps are gone, try rolling back on the previous firmware version or wait for a patch from Xiaomi.

Alternative means of protection SIM-maps in Xiaomi

If standard PIN-The code seems to be not reliable enough, consider additional security measures:

• 🔐 Two-factor authentication (2FA) It's not gonna protect the Mi Account. SIM-card, but will make it harder to access your data when your phone is stolen.
• 📱 Blocking applications (e.g. AppLock or Security Master) allow you to block access to the Phone and Messages applications with a separate password.
• 🔄 Regular shifts PIN. Change the code every 3-6 months, as well as passwords from bank cards.
• 📡 Shutdown SMS In the lock screen settings, disable the option "Show notifications about the SMS", So that attackers don't see the confirmation codes.

For corporate users, Xiaomi offers Mi Enterprise Security, which allows administrators to remotely block the security. SIM-This feature is only available in special versions of firmware for business.

FAQ: Frequent questions about blocking SIM-card MIUI 12