A locked SIM card can be unlocked using a PUK code.
Cincinnati Bell offers a variety of GSM (Global System Mobility) phones for use on their network. Cincinnati Bell phones operate with a SIM card, which contains your phone number and subscriber information. Because your SIM card contains sensitive information, you may wish to protect it by enabling the SIM security feature. PUK (PIN Unlock Key) codes, unique to each SIM card, are one method of protecting the card. Cincinnati Bell can provide customers with the codes if they are needed.
PUK Code Definition
The PIN Unlock Key code is a unique eight-digit number used to unlock a disabled SIM card. SIM cards become disabled when the security PIN, used to protect your SIM card from unauthorized use, is entered incorrectly three times in a row. The SIM card then becomes temporarily blocked and the phone will display a "Phone Locked, Enter PUK" error message. Only emergency calls can be made when your SIM card is blocked. Moving the SIM card to another phone does not remove the error message.
Obtaining Your PUK Code
Cincinnati Bell provides PUK codes for customers who have blocked their SIM card. Because the PUK code is a security feature to protect a lost or stolen SIM, you will need to confirm that the phone number for which you need the PUK code is yours. This is usually accomplished by verifying your account details and account security code. Cincinnati Bell customer service can be reached by calling 1-888-248-1642. Press option "4" for "Reset PUK Code." You may also log in to your iWireless account online using your phone number and date of birth. Use the link in the Resources section to find the "Retrieve PUK Code" link.
Entering the PUK Code
Once you've contacted Cincinnati Bell to obtain the PUK code for your device, you'll need to enter it into your phone. Ensure your disabled SIM is inserted into your phone, metal contacts down. Power on the phone and wait for the error message to display. Type in the eight-digit PUK code and press "OK." You'll then be prompted to enter a new PIN -- this gives you an opportunity to set a new code to protect your SIM card. The PIN can be four to eight digits in length. Enter a code that is easy for you to remember but difficult to guess. Press "OK," then re-enter the code when prompted to confirm. Your phone will now unlock.
Tips
There are a few important things to keep in mind regarding your PUK code. Always contact Cincinnati Bell for the code rather than trying to guess it. After 10 wrong PUK entries, your SIM card will become permanently disabled, rendering it useless. Cincinnati Bell can provide a new SIM, but there may be a fee for this service. Additionally, you will only be prompted to enter the PUK if your SIM card PIN, which is set by you, is entered incorrectly. You can change your phone's security settings to disable the request for a SIM PIN by turning the SIM security option off.
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