How to Create a Secure Debit Card PIN

When it comes to online banking, keeping your accounts secure is incredibly important. One of the easiest and most effective ways to add an extra layer of protection is by using a strong debit card PIN. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to create a PIN to help keep your bank account information safe. 

With the My Cards feature in the Arkansas Federal Credit Union app, you can easily link your debit card and set your PIN with digital banking. Download the app today to access the My Cards feature and create a secure PIN in just a few steps. 

What is a Debit Card PIN? 

Your debit card PIN is your personal identification number (PIN), which is used to verify your identity. When you use your debit card, such as when you make purchases or take cash out from ATMs, you’ll be asked to enter your PIN to authorize the transaction. 

Using the PIN to authorize the transaction helps make sure that your debit card and bank account aren’t being accessed or used by anyone other than you. 

How Long Is a PIN? 

A PIN is typically 4 numeric digits, though some banks may have PINs that are longer. Longer PINs are often stronger and keep your debit card more secure. 

How to Set Up a PIN

How to set up a PIN will vary depending on the bank you use. With Arkansas Federal, you can conveniently set or change your PIN through the My Cards online banking platform without needing to call or visit a branch.

Tips to Create a Pin Number You Can Remember

Because you’ll need to remember your PIN any time you want to use your debit card, knowing how to create a good PIN is important. When you create a PIN, it should be something that is easy for you to remember but hard for someone else to guess. Here are some ideas for coming up with a memorable, but not easily guessed, PIN: 

• Spell out a favorite word using a phone keypad
• Use a date that others wouldn’t easily guess
• Use a former address that only you would know
• Use the last four digits of an old phone number

How to Create a Secure PIN

When you choose your PIN, it is important to pick something that will be secure. The purpose of your PIN is to add an extra layer of security. If someone is able to easily guess your PIN, it defeats the purpose, and they will be able to access your bank account.

Here are a few tips for how you can create a secure PIN to keep your bank account safe:

• Avoid number combinations that are obvious or easy to guess, like repeated or sequential numbers (i.e., 1234 or 1111)
• Avoid using years
• Avoid using easily identifiable information such as your birthday, anniversary, current address, or phone number
• Never share your PIN with anyone. Arkansas Federal will never ask for your debit card number, PIN, or online banking credentials.

Once you have a strong PIN, avoid writing it down where people could find it. If you are worried about remembering it, consider using a password manager or saving it in your phone’s contacts under a fake name.

Creating a strong PIN is an important step in keeping your identity and money safe. 

When To Change Your PIN

For added security, it’s a good idea to update your PIN regularly, ideally every six months. You should also change your PIN immediately if your bank account gets compromised. 

How to change a PIN on a debit card will vary by bank. For Arkansas Federal members, you can change your PIN at any time through My Cards within the Arkansas Federal app. It is entirely self-service and available 24-7, so you don’t need to contact the credit union.

Updating your PIN regularly is a simple way to improve the security of your bank account and reduce the risk of fraud. 

Arkansas Federal’s Mobile App

Arkansas Federal Credit Union’s My Cards tool makes it easy to manage your debit and credit cards. You can set or change your PIN without needing to contact the credit union, and if your card is ever lost, misplaced, or stolen, you can instantly turn it off for an extra layer of security. 
Download the mobile app today to set up your digital banking account and create your PIN.