Daily Tip: How to set up a PIN code on your iPhone SIM

Curious how to set up a PIN code on your iPhone's SIM card to prevent things like the recent issue with iMessage not de-activating on stolen iPhones? If you're concerned about security, it's probably something you want to do sooner rather than later.

1. Launch the Settings app
2. Scroll down and tap on Phone settings
3. Scroll down to the very bottom and tap SIM PIN
4. Switch the SIM PIN option to 'ON'
5. Enter the default PIN set by your carrier (AT&T is 1111, if you're on a different carrier check with them, or Google it)
6. Now, tap Change PIN.
7. Enter the current (default) SIM PIN again
8. Enter your own unique 4-digit PIN code

That's it! Now, if your iPhone gets lost or stolen, your SIM card will remain safe and secure and the new "owner" will have zero ability to send or receive iMessages, or do anything else nefarious with your number.

NOTE: If your iPhone does get lost or stolen, PIN code lock or not, call your carrier immediately to report it stolen and get it deactivated. The PIN code is the temporary solution. The carrier raining down deactivation on their pilfering heads is the permanent one.

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