How to Enable or Disable SIM PIN on iPhone 13
Want to prevent others from using your SIM card to make calls or use data on your iPhone 13? You can lock it with a SIM PIN — a built-in iOS security feature. This guide walks you through how to enable, change, or disable the SIM PIN on your iPhone 13 running iOS 15.3.
What Is SIM PIN and Why Use It?
The SIM PIN is a 4-digit code that locks your SIM card, not the phone itself. When enabled, your iPhone will show “SIM Locked” and won’t allow cellular use — including calls, SMS, or data — until the correct PIN is entered.
It’s useful if:
- You share your device or SIM.
- You want extra protection if your iPhone is lost or stolen.
- You’re trying to prevent kids or others from using your data.
⚠️ Just don’t forget the PIN — too many wrong attempts can permanently lock your SIM.
How to Enable SIM PIN on iPhone 13
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data depending on your region).
- Tap SIM PIN.
- Toggle SIM PIN ON.
- Enter a 4-digit PIN of your choice, then tap Done.
- Re-enter the same PIN to confirm.
Once done, your SIM is now locked. You’ll be asked to enter this PIN every time your iPhone restarts or the SIM is reinserted.
How to Change Your SIM PIN
- Go to Settings > Cellular > SIM PIN.
- Tap Change PIN.
- Enter your current PIN and tap Done.
- Enter your new 4-digit PIN, tap Done.
- Confirm the new PIN by entering it again.
You only get 3–15 tries (depending on your carrier) before the SIM gets locked permanently, so double-check your new PIN.
How to Disable SIM PIN on iPhone 13
- Open Settings and go to Cellular > SIM PIN.
- Toggle SIM PIN OFF.
- Enter your current PIN to confirm.
- Tap Done.
Now your SIM card will stay unlocked even after restarts.
What If You Forget Your SIM PIN?
- Try 1234 or 0000 — common default PINs.
- If those don’t work, contact your carrier. They can provide:
- Your default SIM PIN.
- A PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) to unlock a blocked SIM.
- If you enter the wrong PIN too many times (usually 15), your SIM may be permanently disabled. You’ll need a replacement SIM.