Your card PIN is an important layer of security that helps protect your money. Keeping it private and making it difficult for others to guess can reduce the risk of your card being used without your permission.
From choosing a secure PIN to using it safely at an ATM, here are seven simple ways to keep your PIN protected:
1. Never Share Your PIN
Your PIN should only be known by you. Never share your PIN with anyone over the phone, by email, text, WhatsApp, social media or in person.
Be cautious if someone contacts you asking for your PIN, even if they claim to be from your bank or card provider.
2. Choose a Secure PIN
If your card provider allows you to choose or change your PIN, pick a number that’s memorable to you but difficult for someone else to guess.
Avoid obvious PINs such as:
- 1234 or 0000
- Repeated numbers such as 1111
- Your date of birth
Some card providers issue a PIN automatically but allow you to change it later. Check with your provider to find out whether you can choose your own PIN and how to change it.
3. Never Write Your PIN on Your Card
Don’t write your PIN on your card or keep a written copy alongside it.
If your card is lost or stolen, keeping your PIN with it could make it easier for someone to attempt PIN-authorised transactions.
4. Cover Your PIN at ATMs and Card Machines
Always shield the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN. This helps prevent someone nearby from seeing the numbers you enter.
Before using an ATM, check the card slot and keypad. If anything looks unusual or appears to have been tampered with, use another machine.
5. Don’t Use the Same PIN for Everything
Avoid using the same PIN for multiple cards, your phone or other devices.
Using different PINs means that if one PIN is compromised, your other cards and devices aren’t protected by the same number.
6. Keep Your Card Safe
Keeping your physical card secure is an important part of protecting your money.
Don’t leave your card, wallet or purse unattended in public. If your card is lost or stolen, report it to your card provider as soon as possible.
7. Change Your PIN If You Think Someone Knows It
If you think someone has seen or discovered your PIN, change it as soon as possible.
Check your recent transactions for anything you don’t recognise and contact your card provider immediately if you notice suspicious activity.
How Do You Change Your PIN?
How you change your PIN depends on your bank or card provider. You may be able to change it:
- At an ATM that offers PIN management services
- Through your banking app or online account
- At a bank branch
- By contacting your card provider
Check with your provider to find out which options are available to you.
When choosing a new PIN, avoid easy-to-guess numbers, such as your date of birth, repeated numbers or simple sequences like 1234.
Can Someone Use Your Card Without Your PIN?
Yes, some card transactions can be made without entering your PIN, including certain contactless and online payments.
That’s why it’s important to keep both your PIN and card details secure. If your card is lost or stolen, report it to your card provider as soon as possible, even if you’re confident nobody knows your PIN.
Watch Out for PIN Scams
Be suspicious of anyone who asks you to reveal your full PIN, even if they claim to be from your bank or card provider.
Never send your PIN by text, email, messaging apps or social media, and don’t enter it into a website after following an unexpected link. If you’re unsure whether a request is genuine, contact your provider using its official contact details.
Keep Your Money Secure With Suits Me
Keeping your PIN safe is one simple way to help protect your money. With a Suits Me® account, you can manage your money and card securely through the Suits Me® mobile app and online account.
Looking for an account that puts you in control of your money? Explore Suits Me® accounts and find an option that works for you.
PIN Security FAQs
What Should I Do If I Forget My PIN?
If you’ve forgotten your PIN, avoid repeatedly guessing it, as entering the wrong PIN several times may cause it to become blocked. Check your bank or card provider’s app, online account or support information to find out how to view, retrieve or reset your PIN.
Can I Choose My Own Debit Card PIN?
This depends on your card provider. Some providers issue a PIN automatically but allow you to change it later, while others may offer different PIN management options. Check with your provider to find out whether you can choose your own PIN.
What Should I Do If Someone Knows My PIN?
If you think someone else knows your PIN, change it as soon as possible and check your recent transactions. Contact your card provider immediately if you notice anything you don’t recognise.
What Happens If I Enter My PIN Wrong Multiple Times?
Entering your PIN incorrectly multiple times may cause your PIN or card to become blocked as a security measure. The exact process varies between card providers, so check your provider’s instructions rather than continuing to guess your PIN.
