Personal data protection starts with basic things β for example, setting a PIN code on a computer. SIM-Many Xiaomi Redmi users neglect this feature, considering it unnecessary, but the statistics of telecom operators show that more than 30% of the number thefts occur due to the lack of basic protection on the SIM. If your phone falls into the wrong hands, the attacker will not only be able to call at your expense, but also to access the phone. SMS (including codes from banks, reissue the card in your name or connect paid services.
In this article, we will analyze all the ways to install a PIN code on the Redmi Note. 12/13, Redmi 10/11 and other models under control MIUI 14/15. You'll learn how to turn on protection through your phone's settings, what to do if you forget the code, and why sometimes a PIN is not requested after you reboot. MIUI, which will help to avoid blocking the SIM card with frequent entering of the wrong password.
Let's start with the main thing: PIN code. SIM-The card is not the same as the lock screen password, it protects not the phone, but the SIM card itself from unauthorized use, and even if you turn off the PIN request when you turn on your smartphone (you can do this in the settings), the code will still work. It will need to be entered at each extraction / insertion of the SIM in another device or after resetting the phone to the factory settings.
Why Redmi should be PIN coded SIM-Map: 5 Real Threats
Many believe that the PIN code is a relic of the past, because modern smartphones are protected by a extreme password, fingerprint or Face. ID. However, SIM-The map remains the most vulnerable link in the security chain, and here are the specific risks that four-digit codes can save you from:
- π Theft of a number through the reissue of a SIM in the salon, and scammers often use lost passports or forged documents to issue a duplicate card in their name, and with a PIN, this becomes impossible without your involvement.
- π° Pay-for-services: An attacker can activate content subscriptions in minutes, which will charge you money until you notice.
- π± If the phone is stolen or you lose it, the thief can insert your SIM into another machine and access it. SMS (including codes from banks, social networks, messengers).
- π§ Reset your phone. When you hard reset, the SIM PIN is reset automatically through Recovery Mode, and without it, anyone can activate the card on your phone.
- π‘ In 2023, there were cases when hackers exploited vulnerabilities in communication protocols (for example, in the case of attacks on the operatorβs network, SS7), intercept SMS. PIN code makes such attacks more difficult.
Interesting fact: MTS, Beeline and MegaFon do not default to install a PIN on new SIM cards, but it is designed to make users more comfortable, but it creates a loophole for fraudsters. Tele2 The situation is different β there the PIN code is activated by default (usually 0000 or 1234), and it must be changed when you first use it.
On Xiaomi Redmi, you can turn off the PIN request when you turn on your phone, but that doesn't mean that the protection is deactivated.
- π Switching the SIM to another slot (if you have Dual) SIM).
- π± Inserting a card into another phone.
- π§ Resetting the phone to factory settings.
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If you reboot your phone frequently (for example, to test firmware), turn off the PIN request in the settings. SIM-maps and mobile networks β Settings SIM β Requesting a PIN, but remember, it reduces security!
How to set a PIN code on SIM-Redmi card: step-by-step instructions for MIUI 14/15
The process of activating the PIN code on Xiaomi Redmi takes no more than a minute, but has nuances depending on the shell version. MIUI. Below is a universal instruction that is suitable for models from Redmi 9 to Redmi Note 13 Pro+.
Step 1. Open the settings. SIM-map
Go to the Settings menu β SIM-Maps and mobile networks. SIM, Choose the one you want to use for your PIN (click on its name).
Step 2: Activate the PIN request
In the window that opens, find PIN Request (or Blocking) SIM-maps in older versions MIUI) And you move the slider to the right, and the system will immediately ask you to enter the current PIN.
Step 3. Enter a standard PIN
By default, most SIM cards have one of the following codes installed:
- π’ 0000 - the most common option for MTS, Beeline, MegaFon.
If neither option fits, check the documentation that came with the SIM card, or contact the operator for support.
Step 4: Set a new PIN code
Once you have the standard code, the system will suggest you come up with a new one.
- π’ Length β exactly 4 digits (no more, no less).
- π’ Do not use repeating characters (1111, 2222) or sequences (1234, 4321).
- π’ Do not link PIN to date of birth or last digits of phone number.
Step 5. Confirm the changes
Enter the new PIN again for confirmation. Ready! Now every time you turn on your phone or restart, the system will ask for the code.
βοΈ Verification of PIN installation
β οΈ Note: If you enter the wrong PIN 3 times in a row, the SIM card will be blocked, and you will need to unlock it. PUK-code (can be found on a plastic SIM or requested from the operator) PUK-The SIM code will have to be changed!
What to do if Redmi does not request a PIN after installation
Sometimes users will have a PIN set, but the phone won't ask for it when it's turned on, and there may be a number of reasons, from a bug in the firmware to a deliberate shutdown of the function, and we'll figure out how to fix it.
Reason 1: PIN request disabled in settings
Even if the PIN is activated, the request for it when the phone is loaded can be deactivated.
- Open the Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Pick your SIM.
- Make sure that the PIN request slider is turned on (should be blue).
Reason 2: Module malfunction SIM-map
If the PIN request appears, then disappears, try the following actions:
- π Remove the SIM card and insert it back (by turning off the phone beforehand).
- π± Move the SIM to another slot (if you have Dual) SIM).
- π§ Reset network settings: Settings β SIM-maps and mobile networks β Resetting network settings.
Reason 3: An outdated version MIUI
In the firmware MIUI 12 and below were bugs with the PIN code:
- Go to Settings β About the phone β System update.
- Click Check Updates and install the latest version.
- After the update, restart the phone and check the PIN request.
Reason 4: Hardware failure
If nothing helps, there may be a malfunction. SIM-It's easy to check it out:
- Insert the SIM into another phone β if a PIN is requested, the problem is in your Redmi.
- Try another SIM card on your phone β if a PIN is not requested, the slot is faulty.
What to do if you have a slot SIM-card's not working?
How to Reset or Change PIN Codes on SIM-map
If you forget your PIN or want to change it to a more reliable one, you can do it right in your phone settings, and the key is to keep the limit of incorrect attempts.
Method 1. Change the PIN through the phone settings
- Open the Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Pick your SIM.
- Click Change PIN (or Manage PIN code in older versions).
- Enter the current PIN, then a new one (twice to confirm).
Method 2: PIN discharge through USSD-team
Some operators allow you to reset your PIN with a special code.
- π For MTS: *111*181# (Follow the instructions of the voice menu).
- π For Beeline: *110*11#.
- π For MegaFon: *105*00#.
- π For Tele2: *155*1#.
β οΈ Note: If you enter the wrong PIN 3 times in a row, the SIM card will be blocked. PUK-If you lose your code, contact the communication room with your passport, and the operator will issue a new one. PUK.
Method 3: Unlocking through PUK-code
If the SIM is blocked:
- When requesting a PIN code, enter any code 3 times in a row (the system will issue an error and prompt you to enter it). PUK).
- Enter. PUK-code (8 digits).
- Set a new PIN code (4 digits).
- Confirm the change.
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PUK-The code is only available from the operator, and no online service can recover it. PUK 10 times wrong, the SIM card will be permanently blocked and must be replaced.
Table: Standard PINs and PUK-codes for popular operators
If you didn't change your PIN after you bought your SIM card, it probably stayed standard, and the table below is factory codes for major Russian carriers.
| Operator. | Standard PIN | Standard PUK | Where is it? |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTS | 0000 or 1234 | 8 digits (unique) | On a plastic carrier of a SIM or in an envelope |
| Beeline | 1234 or 0000 | 8 digits (unique) | On the back of the plastic card |
| MegaFon | 0000 | 8 digits (unique) | V SMS activated or packaged |
| Tele2 | 1234 | 8 digits (unique) | On a plastic carrier (under a scratching layer) |
| Yota | 1111 | 8 digits (unique) | In an email to you when registering |
If you do not find your operator in the table or have lost your plastic SIM media, contact support:
- π MTS: 0890 (free from mobile).
- π Beeline: 0611.
- π MegaFon: 0500.
- π Tele2: 611.
Frequent PIN Installation Errors on Redmi and How to Avoid Them
Even in a simple process like PIN installation, Xiaomi Redmi users make mistakes that lead to a SIM lock or network failure, and we'll take a look at some of the most common ones.
Error 1: Entering a PIN code when the phone is turned off
Some people try to enter a PIN when the phone is already off (for example, after the battery is drained). This will not work β the code is requested only when the system is booted. If the phone is turned off, turn it on first, wait for the Redmi logo to appear, and then enter the PIN.
Error 2: Using the same PIN code for both SIM cards (Dual) SIM)
If you have a dual-slot phone (like the Redmi Note 12 Pro)+), Never set the same PIN for both sims. If you lose your phone, an attacker can unlock both cards with the same code.
Error 3: Storing a PIN in your phone's notes
It's a bad idea to save a PIN in the standard Notes or Notepad app. If the phone gets stolen, the thief will have access to both the SIM and the recorded code.
- π Password Managers (KeePass, 1Password).
- π Notebook (but donβt keep it near your phone).
- π§ Encrypted letter on your email.
Error 4: Ignoring the request PUK-code
If the SIM is blocked, some users try to "suspend" and continue to use the phone without a network.
- π« Unlocked. PUK You will not be able to call or go online.
- π With 10 wrong inputs PUK SIM is permanently blocked.
- π± Some features (such as Wi-Fi Calling) may stop working.
Error 5: Disabling PIN request for "convenience"
Many people turn off PIN requests in their settings so they don't enter them every time they turn on, which reduces security, but if you really need to, at least:
- π Enable Automatic Locking SIM In the settings (if there is such an option).
- π± Use a complex pattern lock or fingerprint to unlock the screen.
- π§ Check active services periodically USSD-commands (e.g. *111# for MTS).
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If you reboot your phone frequently (for example, to test custom firmware), install the MacroDroid app and set up automatic PIN entry when booting, which will save time but not reduce security.
Additional security measures for SIM-maps in Xiaomi Redmi
Setting a PIN is just the first step to protecting your SIM card, and to protect yourself from fraud, follow these guidelines:
1.Include change notifications SIM-map
Some operators (such as MTS and Beeline) offer a free service that notifies you. SMS I'm talking about replacing the SIM card on your number:
- π MTS: send SMS 1 to 111.
- π Beeline: Dial *110*789#.
- π MegaFon: The service is called "Control" SIM" β Connecting through your personal account.
2. Set up a lock on outgoing calls
V MIUI There's a feature that limits outgoing calls, which will help you avoid unauthorized calls to pay numbers:
- Open the Settings. β SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Choose a SIM. β Restriction of outgoing.
- Set a password (different from the SIM PIN).
3. Use eSIM instead of physical card
If your Redmi supports eSIM (e.g. Redmi Note 13 Pro) 5G), Consider switching to a virtual SIM card:
- π You cannot physically remove (and therefore steal).
- π Easy to switch between profiles (e.g. work and personal number).
- π± Does not occupy a slot for the second physical SIM.
4. Regularly check active services
Fraudsters often connect paid subscriptions through USSD-To avoid this, to avoid the team:
- π Once a month, send a request *111# (for MTS), *102# (for Beeline) or *105# (for MegaFon).
- π± Include notifications about new services in the operatorβs personal account.
5. Set up contact backups
If the SIM card gets blocked, you lose all the contacts you saved on it.
- Open Contacts β Settings β Import / Export.
- Export your contacts to your Google Account or memory card.
- Enable automatic sync with Google Contacts.
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Even if you lose your phone or SIM card, synced contacts will remain in your Google account and recover on a new device.