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You can unlock your SIM card by using its unique PUK code. If you use a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM Card) to operate your phone, you can activate a built-in security feature known as a SIM CARD PIN. The SIM PIN is a code that protects against unauthorized use of the phone number. The SIM card PIN code has to be entered correctly in order to use your phone.
The PIN (Personal Identification Number) code can sometimes be the factory default “0000” four-digit code or a more expanded four-to eight-digit code set by the user. If you entered your PIN code incorrectly three times, the SIM card would be locked automatically to prevent it from unauthorized use. However, you can unlock your SIM card by typing in a PIN unlock code.
To get a PIN unlock code, you’ll need a Personal Unblocking Key (PUK Code). Every SIM card has a PUK code which you can obtain from your cell phone provider. A PUK code is unique to each SIM card and is usually set at the factory. If your SIM card is locked because you entered an incorrect PIN, you can use this PUK code to reset and unlock the SIM card. Follow the steps below to unlock any locked SIM card.
Note: If you enter an incorrect PUK code ten times, your SIM card will be locked permanently, meaning you will need to replace it with a new SIM card.
Step 1
Contact your cell phone wireless provider to get your SIM PUK code. The SIM carrier holds the PUK code. You can call your phone provider using the toll-free customer service number, which you can find on the carrier’s website. Another option is to register your SIM card details at your carrier’s website and get the PUK code that way. You will need to verify your account details before your carrier can release the PUK code to you.
Step 2
Power your phone on to unlock the card. The phone screen will show “SIM Locked” or “Enter PUK.” If the screen shows up as “SIM Locked,” tap “Unlock” or enter any four digits three times to force the SIM card to ask you for the PUK code. It doesn’t matter what sequence of four numbers you entered.
Step 3
Enter the PUK code when prompted by the phone and tap “OK.”
Step 4
Type in a new PIN code of your choice when prompted by the phone. Re-enter the PIN code when prompted to verify your entry, then tap “OK.”
Step 5
Restart your phone by turning it off and then back on. Enter your new PIN code. Your SIM card is now unlocked.