PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) codes are typically an eight-digit unique number allocated to a SIM card and are accessible as a security feature on all SIM cards. Most mobile phones have a PIN (personal identification number) to prevent illegal phone use and to keep SIM card information secure. When a wrong PIN code is entered more than three times, the SIM card may be disabled. In cases when this is an honest error, the PUK code can be used to reset the PIN and unblock your SIM card. In such cases, the PUK code is supplied by the telecom service provider once the subscriber has been verified. Let’s read about how to unlock SIM card without PUK number.
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Also Read: How to Remove SIM from Android & iPhone?
How to Unlock SIM Card Without PUK Codes?
Depending on the network, you may be given up to three wrong attempts. Under either case, if your phone is locked by the network under these situations, you’ll need a PUK to unlock it before you can use it again. There are alternatives to using PUK codes to unlock your SIM card. Let’s see how to unlock your SIM card without a PUK code.
Using the Carrier’s Website to Unlock SIM Cards
Most carriers provide additional services on their websites. Follow the procedures below if your carrier offers a website that allows you to open SIM cards without PUK codes-
- Log on to the carrier’s website and register your phone and SIM card.
- Check your profile for the PUK code, or request that your SIM card be opened.
*Actual steps may differ depending on the carrier. Some carriers demand you to call their customer service number right away, make an email request, or fill out a request form. For further information, see the instructions included with your network’s SIM package.
Also Read: How to Lock SIM Card?
Getting Back at Your SIM Package
If your SIM card is locked and you have forgotten your PUK code, check the packing. Most providers provide detailed instructions on how to open your SIM card and other alternatives. The worst that may happen is that you lose access to your SIM card entirely if you have a detachable SIM, your cell operator should be able to replace it. If you save any contacts or texts on your previous SIM card, they will be lost, however, saving stuff on SIM cards is becoming less common these days.
Using an Old Phone
This is an old method that may or may not work with all SIM cards. This step involves the use of your SIM card and an old phone. Use the following steps-
- Switch on your phone and insert your SIM card
- Wait 3 to 5 minutes before turning off the phone
- Remove and re-insert your SIM card
- When you turn on the phone, you’ll be prompted for a PUK code; enter “*2223421#” as your code
- You should be prompted to enter a new PUK code by phone
- Make a PUK code and input it as the new one
- Keep your new PUK code as straightforward as possible. This strategy is only applicable to certain models. If the first approach fails, you can use this one.
Also Read: A complete guide on how new SIM activation works
Understanding Why Your SIM Card Was Blocked?
There are several scenarios where we unintentionally block our SIM cards. This is most likely due to incorrectly inserting the SIM card or continuously entering incorrect codes.
Another thing to explore is whether your new SIM card was tampered with before purchasing. SIM pins and PUK codes are security mechanisms that guarantee only the subscriber has access to and uses the SIM card. They also guard against potential fraud and smartphone identity theft.
If your codes are incorrect at least three times, your SIM card will be locked and permanently blocked if you continue to use the wrong codes.
The simplest approach to obtain your PUK code is to contact your mobile phone operator. The PUK code can also be found on the packaging of your SIM card, in your cell provider’s official app, or in your account information on the web.
When you wish to unlock a phone, you will need a PUK. If your device is locked by your current network and you wish to use a SIM card from another network, you’ll need one. You’ll also need a PUK code in case you accidentally input the erroneous PIN code and are instantly locked out. Being locked out of your SIM card can be aggravating, especially if you entered the wrong numbers. Remember that PIN and PUK codes safeguard your SIM card against identity theft, so keep them somewhere safe and easy to remember.