Basic rules to put into practice
More and more people are abandoning the idea of having cash in their pockets, much preferring to pay with credit or debit cards. So much so that this trend has not gone unnoticed by thieves and criminals who multiply the means to try to empty bank accounts. To avoid being a victim as much as possible, a major solution is available to you: it is strongly recommended to change your credit card code. This famous secret four-digit number between 0000 and 9999. This is the main security measure for credit cards.
Thus, specialists recommend never betting on specific dates related to special occasions (date of birth, for example) when setting your PIN code. Indeed, nowadays, via the Internet, it is very easy to have access to your personal data. As a precaution, experts also recommend changing this code every three to four months. And it goes without saying, it is always better to memorize it by heart and never write it down in your wallet next to your card.
What are the least secure PINs?
Enter PIN – Source: spm
Be aware that the security of the PIN code does not only impact the cardholder, since this code is also stored in the system of the bank that issued the card. In addition, it is sent in encrypted form every time you make a transaction with your card. Keep in mind that this code is the key to your money deposited in the bank. Without it, you cannot withdraw your tickets from the ATM. And, considering the drawbacks of magnetic stripe technology and the ease of copying cards, the PIN remains a guarantee of security for your money at the bank.
Nick Berry, data scientist at Facebook, presented a list of the least secure passwords, some of which are very common and popular. The percentage of frequency is shown in parentheses: 1234 (10.71%); 1111 (6,02 %) ; 0000 (1,88 %) ; 1212 (1,2%) ; 7777 (0,75 %) ; 1004 (0,62 %) ; 2000 (0,61 %) ; 4444 (0.53%) or 2222 (0.52%).
As you can see, for your own security, if your credit or debit card number appears on this list, it is high time to change it.
Here are the combinations recommended by the expert
Inserting your card into an ATM – Source: spm
Conversely, Nick Berry points out that the least used PIN codes of the bank card are often the most secure. You may be able to use it as inspiration to modify yours.
Here is a non-exhaustive list: 7063 (0.001131%); 6093 (0,001131 %) ; 6827 (0,001101%) ; 7394 (0,001101%) ; 0859 (0,001072 %) ; 8957 (0,001042 %); 9480 (0,001042%); 6793 (0.001012%) or 8398 (0.000982%).
Remember, never use a series of numbers that are too simple to remember and no longer opt for key numbers that you would have already used in other contexts. Finally, never share your PIN code with anyone, not even a loved one!
