Credit Card PIN Generation

How is the credit card PIN assigned

Typically, banks assign a default PIN when issuing a new credit card. This PIN arrives in a secure welcome kit sent alongside your card, often as a separate sealed document for confidentiality. The importance of changing this default PIN cannot be overstated. Since the original PIN is sent through mail or courier, it may be susceptible to interception. Changing it immediately after receiving your card helps maintain control and security. 

Some banks now offer ‘green PIN’ or ‘self-PIN generation’ services that allow you to create your own PIN online or at an ATM. This modern approach reduces the risks associated with sending a default PIN through the post.

Why is a credit card PIN important?

A credit card PIN is an added layer of security that acts as a key to authorising transactions, such as at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals. A PIN is a protection for cardholders, as it requires the owner of the card to access funds or make a purchase, and without that PIN, the card isn't protected and can be misused. Having a PIN is an important security measure.

How to Activate a Credit Card

While most credit cards are sent in an active state, you cannot use them for transactions requiring a PIN until you have generated or confirmed your PIN. Previously, card activation and PIN generation were separate steps; today, once you generate your PIN and use your card for the first PIN-required transaction (such as an ATM withdrawal), your card is automatically activated. 

If you encounter any difficulties using your card with your new PIN, ensure you have entered the correct code. If problems persist, contact your bank’s customer service immediately for assistance.

How to Generate a Credit Card PIN

Customers can generate a credit card PIN through the following methods.

How to Generate Credit Card PIN at an ATM

Step 1: Insert your credit card in the ATM machine and choose the language of your preference.

Step 2: Click on 'create PIN using OTP'

Step 3: As soon as you click on that, a 'One Time Password' will be sent to your registered mobile number.

Step 4: Enter the OTP.

Step 5: Now, type in a 4-digit PIN of your choice.

Step 6: Re-type the PIN and click on 'Submit'.

Step 7: The bank will then send you a message that your PIN has been generated. Contact the bank if you haven't attempted to change your PIN.

How to Generate Credit Card PIN via Net Banking Account

Step 1: Login to your net banking account.

Step 2: Click on 'credit card options'

Step 3: Click on 'Change PIN'.

Step 4: The bank will then send you an OTP to your registered mobile number.

Step 5: Enter the OTP and click on 'continue'.

Step 6: Enter the PIN of your choice.

Step 7: Re-enter the PIN and click on submit.

Step 8: The bank will then notify you that your PIN has been generated.

Generate Credit Card PIN via Phone Banking (IVR)

Phone banking allows users to create or reset their PIN through the bank’s IVR system. Follow the steps below:  

1. Step 1: Call the card issuer’s customer care or IVR number from the registered mobile number 

1. Step 2: Select the menu option for 'Credit Card PIN Generation' 

1. Step 3: Enter the credit card number, expiry date, or Customer ID as required 

1. Step 4: Receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on the registered mobile and key it in 

1. Step 5: Set and confirm a new four-digit PIN. The PIN becomes active immediately 

Request a PIN via SMS

SMS-based requests are suitable for users who prefer a text-driven approach over app or phone-based setups. The following are the instructions to request a physical PIN via SMS:  

1. Step 1: Send an SMS in the prescribed format (e.g. 'PIN <last 4 digits>') to the bank’s official number 

1. Step 2: Receive an acknowledgement confirming the request 

1. Step 3: The bank prints a secure PIN mailer and dispatches it to the registered address 

1. Step 4: On receipt, visit an ATM to change the mailed PIN to a preferred one

Receive Your PIN by Post

Banks also allow users to request a PIN via courier or post, suitable for those who prefer a physical document. Check the following instructions:  

1. Step 1: Log in to net banking or contact customer care to request postal delivery of the PIN 

1. Step 2: Verify identity using an OTP or security question 

1. Step 3: The bank dispatches the PIN mailer via courier within 5–7 working days 

1. Step 4: After delivery, visit an ATM or use the bank's app to set a personalised PIN 

How to Reset or Recover Your Credit Card PIN

If you forget or lose your PIN, most banks allow you to reset it easily by following these steps: 

1. Step 1: Log in to your bank’s net banking portal or visit an ATM. 

1. Step 2: Verify your identity by entering the OTP sent to your registered mobile number. 

1. Step 3: Choose the option to reset or recover your PIN. 

1. Step 4: Enter a new 4-digit PIN of your choice. 

1. Step 5: Confirm the new PIN by re-entering it. 

1. Step 6: Submit the request. You will receive a confirmation message once the PIN is successfully changed. 

1. Step 7: If you face any issues, contact your bank’s customer care for assistance. 

Add-on Cards Require Separate PINs

Each add-on card is issued with an independent PIN to ensure transaction-level security. Provide the add-on cardholder’s details at the time of card issuance. The bank issues a unique PIN for the add-on card, sent securely via SMS or mail. The add-on user must generate or change this PIN before first-time usage 

What Happens After Multiple Wrong PIN Attempts?

Incorrect PIN entries are automatically flagged by banks as a protective measure. Three consecutive incorrect PIN attempts lead to a temporary block on the card. Visit an ATM or contact customer care to verify identity. Reset the PIN or wait for the auto-unblock window, as per the bank's specific policy 

What to do if you suspect your PIN is compromised?

If you think your credit card PIN may have been exposed, follow these steps immediately: 

1. Step 1: Change your PIN without delay. Use your bank’s net banking portal or visit an ATM to set a new PIN. 

1. Step 2: Contact your bank’s fraud or customer care department to report the suspected compromise. They can guide you on additional security measures. 

1. Step 3: Regularly monitor your credit card statements and transaction history for any unauthorised or suspicious activity. 

1. Step 4: Follow any further instructions or precautions provided by your bank to secure your account.

Is the UPI PIN the same as my credit card PIN?

No, the PIN for UPI and credit card are not same. When linking a credit card to a UPI app, a separate UPI PIN must be created. This is used only for UPI-based transactions. 

Best practices: 

1. Set up a dedicated UPI PIN when prompted during the linking process 

1. Use this UPI PIN only for UPI payments 

1. Do not reuse your credit card PIN for UPI to maintain security

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