What is a SIM card unlock pin ?

[Android Central Question]

Hi, my phone (Samsung A5) is asking for a separate pin other than the one I set myself. This began the first time I switched it on after moving to a different country, although I was still using the same/old SIM card. I tried changing to a new/local SIM card but it’s still not working. As far as I know the phone is not network or region locked.I don’t understand why this is happening, I’ve used it in different countries without any problem before.

 

[Javier P]

Welcome to the forums. You can find the PIN code in the original frame that came with the SIM card. If you have lost it you need to contact your carrier for assistance.

 

[anon(123856)]

What Javier P said is true. When I travelled to Italy last summer I got a Vodaphone sim to use for the week. The same thing happened. I got a new screen wanting a sim pin. The pin was on the card the sim was in. I had to use the pin everytime I booted the phone.

 

[Javier P]

What Javier P said is true. When I travelled to Italy last summer I got a Vodaphone sim to use for the week. The same thing happened. I got a new screen wanting a sim pin. The pin was on the card the sim was in. I had to use the pin everytime I booted the phone.

Exactly, same here. Once you unlock with the PIN number you can change the settings to switch that security screen off. The right steps depend on the phone.

 

[Tim1954]

There is also a setting in the device that will make the device require a pin of you try a different sim in it. This is obviously in case someone steals your phone...

 

[anon(123856)]

Exactly, same here. Once you unlock with the PIN number you can change the settings to switch that security screen off. The right steps depend on the phone.

That is good to know. I didn't realize that at the time (obviously) so I just lived with it. I only turned the phone off a couple of times so it wasn't a big deal.

 

[anon(123856)]

There is also a setting in the device that will make the device require a pin of you try a different sim in it. This is obviously in case someone steals your phone...

That also is good to know. I'll have to take a look at the settings and check it out.