Subscriber Identity Module or SIM cards have a security lock that prevents unauthorized use. These cards will permanently disable when you're unable to unlock the security lock. SIM cards are used in Global System for Mobile Communications or GSM phones. SIM cards can be moved from one GSM phone to another on the same or a different network. Once permanently disabled, the cards are rendered useless for security reasons.
SIM Card Lock
Many GSM phones include a SIM card security that allows you to prevent unauthorized users from accessing the cards content. The security also prevents the card from being used with other phones on the same wireless network or with a different network. When you enable the SIM card lock, a previously created PIN must be entered when you turn on the phone. The SIM PIN can contain four or more characters that can include numbers or alphanumerical depending on the phone.
Temporily Disables
To protect your SIM card, many wireless providers allow a limited number of incorrect SIM PIN entries. The number varies with different phones; however, if you enter the incorrect PIN a several times, the phone temporarily locks. The number of times varies depending on the phone. When the phone locks, you must enter the PIN Unlock Key or PUK code to unlock the device. The PUK code is usually located on the SIM card's documentation. If you can't find the code, some wireless providers allow you to retrieve the code using your online wireless account through a process called "Unblocking." If you don't have an online wireless account, contact your wireless provider. When you enter the PUK code, the phone's SIM card is unlocked automatically.
Permanent Disable
If you enter the PUK code incorrectly too many times, the SIM card will be permanently disabled. The number of times varies with different wireless providers. However, wireless providers such as AT&T and T-Mobile that both use SIM cards will permanently disable SIM cards if you enter the incorrect PUK code 10 times or more. The PUK code is designed to give you a second chance at unlocking the SIM card. However, the more times you enter it incorrectly, it's assumed that someone is tampering with your SIM card, which is why it's disabled after several failed attempts.
Tips
If the SIM card is permanently disabled, unfortunately, it cannot be reactivated or used. You must contact your wireless provider for a replacement card. Some wireless providers such as T-Mobile allow you to purchase replacement SIM cards directly from their website. Some of the replacement SIM cards are ready for use as soon as you insert them into the phone. However, some wireless providers will require you to activate a replacement card.
Tags: wireless providers, permanently disabled, will permanently, with different, your wireless provider, cards will, cards will permanently