Data protection starts with small things, and one of them is PIN-code SIM-Many Xiaomi users (including Redmi models and other users) POCO) They don't even know that their SIM card is not password protected by default, which means that if you steal or lose your phone, an attacker can easily use your number to make calls, SMS-Fraud or even account interception through two-factor authentication.
In this article, we will discuss how to activate PIN-defend SIM-map in any Xiaomi smartphone - from the budget Redmi Note 12 to the flagship Xiaomi 14 Ultra. You will learn not only the basic steps, but also the nuances of working with two SIM-What to do if you forgot your password, and why some operators block the ability to turn on PIN-And then there's the unique life hack of a dump. PIN without data loss, which is not written even in the official documentation of Xiaomi.
Why put a password on SIM-map?
According to Kaspersky Lab, more than 60% of identity thefts in 2023 began with the compromise of a mobile number. SIM-card PIN-It's like an open door for fraudsters. Here are the specific risks you'll avoid:
- 📱 Unauthorized calls – an attacker can call paid numbers, leaving you with a huge bill.
- 💳 SMS-Fraud – your number can confirm money transfers or register loans.
- 🔑 Loss of access to accounts – many services (banks, social networks) are tied to the Internet SMS-authentication.
- 📡 Traffic interception - no PIN-The SIM can be easily cloned into another phone.
Including PIN-It takes less than a minute to code, it doesn't affect your phone's speed, it doesn't require an Internet connection, and the only downside is you have to enter the code every time you turn on or restart your smartphone, but it's a small security charge, especially if you store important information on your phone.
⚠️ Note: Tele2 and Iota operators by default disable the installation option PIN-new-code SIM-To activate this feature, you'll have to call support or visit a communications salon.
Preparation: What to know before switching on PIN-code
Before you go into settings, check out a few key points:
- Find out the standard PIN-code – usually listed on a plastic holder SIM-If you do not have a card holder, call the operator.
- Check the balance - some operators are blocking SIM-Card after 3 incorrect attempts to enter PIN-Unlocking costs from 50 to 300 rubles.
- Eliminate dual-SIM conflicts – if you have two SIMs, make sure you turn on the correct PIN (more on this in the next section).
Please note that after activation PIN-code:
- 🔄 Each time the phone is rebooted, a code will be required.
- 📴 If you pull it out. SIM-card and inserted into another phone, you will need to enter PIN.
- 🔒 After 3 wrong attempts, the SIM will be blocked and will be required. PUK-code (it can be obtained only by the operator).
Step-by-step instruction: how to turn on PIN-code SIM-mapping
The activation process is the same for all Xiaomi models, including Redmi 10/11/12, POCO X3/X4/X5, Xiaomi 13/14 and others. Instructions are suitable for MIUI 12/13/14 (including global and Chinese versions of firmware).
Make sure that SIM-The card is active and catches the network|Find the standard PIN-code (on the holder or operator)|Check if the SIM is blocked after previous incorrect attempts|Charge your phone at least 20% (in case of a crash)
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Now we move on to the settings:
- Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen).
- Scroll down and select the Passwords and Security section.
- Tap on Settings. SIM-Cards (in some firmware, this item may be called Security) SIM-map).
- Choose the right one. SIM-card (if two of them — SIM 1 SIM 2).
- Activate the switch Lock PIN-code.
- Enter the standard. PIN-code (default 0000 or 1234).
- Press Ready – Protection activated!
Then the phone might ask you to restart. Do that to make the changes effective. The next time you turn on, you'll see a input request. PIN-code.
What to do if there is no "Settings" item SIM-map"?
Features of working with two SIM-cards in Xiaomi
If your Xiaomi supports Dual SIM (two physical or one physical + eSIM), when switched on PIN-There are a few nuances of code:
| Script | Action. | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Both SIM-card | You can use the same thing. PIN-code | Convenient but less secure: When a phone is stolen, a hacker can unlock both SIMs |
| SIM-cards from different operators | It is recommended to establish different PIN-code | Increases security, but is harder to remember |
| One physical SIM + eSIM | PIN-code is set up separately for each | The eSIM may not support PIN-Protection (depends on the operator) |
| Only one is used. SIM-map | The second can be turned off in the settings | This will speed up the phone and save battery power. |
The important point: if you insert SIM-The card to another slot (for example, move from the SIM 1-on SIM (2) then settings PIN-The code won't save, they'll have to be reconfigured. This applies to all Xiaomi models, including the Redmi Note 11 Pro.+ and POCO F5.
⚠️ Note: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T) activated PIN-code-in SIM-Conflict Error may occur in the cards, in which case, disable the protection on one of the sims or update the firmware to the latest version.
What to do if you forgot PIN-code SIM-maps in Xiaomi
It's a bad situation, but it's solvable, and here are all the ways we can restore access, from the simplest to the most radical.
Method 1: Standard discharge through PUK-code
If you have entered incorrectly 3 times PIN-code, SIM-The card will be blocked and will require PUK-Personal Unblocking Key (Performal Unblocking Key:
- 📄 On a plastic holder. SIM-maps (near the PIN-code).
- 📞 Calling in support of the operator (passport required).
- 🌐 In the personal account on the operator's website (section "My own" SIM-map").
After input PUK-You will be asked to install a new one. PIN-Choose a memorable combination, but don't use simple sequences like 1111 or 1234.
Method 2: Reset via the Engineering Menu (for advanced users only)
This method only works on Xiaomi phones with Qualcomm processors (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro, POCO X3 Pro) and requires developer rights. Misconduct can lead to loss of communication!
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone and tap 7 times to the MIUI version.
- Return to Settings → Additional → For developers and enable USB debugging.
- Connect your phone to your PC and type in the command: adb shell am start -n com.android.settings/.SimSettings
- In the menu that opens, find the Reset SIM PIN section and follow the instructions.
Method 3: Replacement SIM-map
If none of these methods work, it is only necessary to replace them. SIM-It's free, but it's required:
- 🆔 Passport of the owner.
- 📱 The very thing is blocked. SIM-card (unless lost).
- 💳 Payment for a new SIM (for some operators).
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If you often forget your passwords, keep them. PIN and PUK-codes in a secure location, such as in the Xiaomi Password Manager app (included in the standard set) MIUI) or in an encrypted file on Google Drive.
Common Problems and Their Solutions
Even after the right setup PIN-code SIM-Xiaomi may have a problem with the map, and here are the most common ones and how to fix them:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Phone doesn't ask for it. PIN-post-reboot | Failure of the module SIM-map | Pull it out and insert it. SIM-card back or reinstall PIN customized |
| There's a mistake "SIM-card blocked" | Exceeded number of PIN attempts | Use it. PUK-code (see section above) |
| The mobile network does not work after PIN is turned on | Conflict with operator settings | Switch network mode to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Preferred type of network on 4G/3G/2G (motor-car) |
| PIN-The code is requested too often (every hour) | The "Always Request PIN" mode is activated | Turn it off in the security settings SIM-map |
If none of the solutions worked, try resetting your network settings:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Select Network Resetting.
- Confirm the action and restart the phone.
⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Redmi) 9A) After resetting the network settings, the signal may disappear 4G. In this case, manually select the operator in the mobile network settings.
Additional security measures for SIM-maps in Xiaomi
Inclusion PIN-Code is just the first step, to protect your own security as much as possible. SIM-Map, follow these recommendations:
- 🔐 Use the complex PIN-code - at least 6 digits, no repeat sequences. Example: 742961 instead of 1234.
- 📱 Activate the screen lock – even if you have it on PIN on SIM-without locking the screen, the attacker will be able to use the phone.
- 🔄 Change regularly PIN-once- 3-6 It'll make it harder for scammers if they somehow found out your code.
- 🛡️ Disable autoconnection to open Wi-Fi – this will prevent data interception through phishing access points.
- 📲 Install a monitoring application SIM-maps, for example SIM Card Manager from Google Play, which will alert you if the SIM is removed or replaced.
It is also worth turning off automatic registration in the operator’s networks to avoid connecting to false base stations (IMSI-catchers).
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Choose yours. SIM-map.
- Turn off the option of Automatic Network Selection.
- Manually select your operator in the list.
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Even with it on. PIN-code-wise SIM-Card scammers can trick you into stealing your code through phishing calls or SMS. Never report. PIN-phone code even if you call "from the bank" or "from the operator".