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What to do if your SIM is locked?

Published on: May 07, 2024

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Have you ever experienced that worry when you reach for your phone, eager to make a call or check a message, only to be greeted with a dreaded message: "SIM Locked." Most often, resolving this issue and unlocking the SIM card is easy. 

However, before we dive into the solutions, let's understand why your SIM card might be locked in the first place. There are several reasons why this can happen:

  1. Entering Incorrect PIN: If you enter the PIN (Personal Identification Number) for your SIM card incorrectly multiple times, your SIM card might get locked.

  2. Security Measures: Some mobile carriers or devices have security measures that automatically lock the SIM card if unauthorized access is detected.

  3. Lost or Stolen Phone: In cases of theft or loss, you might request your mobile carrier to lock your SIM card to prevent unauthorized usage.

What to Do When SIM is Locked?

  • Locate Your PUK Code: The PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) code is a unique number used to unlock your SIM card. You can find your PUK code on the SIM card holder or by contacting Vi customer service, the PUK code will be provided after user verification. Alternatively, dial 199 (toll-free) to call the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system, follow the guidelines to get your PUK code, and unblock your SIM.

  • Enter the PUK Code: Once you have your PUK code, insert your locked SIM card into your phone, and once prompted, type in the PUK code and follow the on-screen instructions.

  • Set a New PIN: Once you enter the PUK code successfully, you will need to set a new PIN for your SIM card. Choose a PIN that is easy to remember but difficult for others to guess. 

  • Restart Your Phone: Once you set a new PIN, restart your phone to apply the changes. Your SIM card should now be unlocked, and you can start using your phone again. 

If this doesn't work out, or you face any complications, get a duplicate SIM card by contacting us or order a new Vi SIM card. Enjoy a range of benefits and the power of choice with Vi Max postpaid on your new Vi postpaid SIM.

Benefits with Vi Max Postpaid: (Based on Plan selected)

  1. Unlimited Calls & 3000 SMS per month
  2. Unlimited Data from 12 am to 6 am
  3. Up to 200 GB data rollover
  4. Choice of Benefits: OTT subscriptions, Swiggy One Membership, Travel discounts, mobile security, & more
  5. Free Games & esports on the Vi App

Alternatively, you can port to Vi to retain your existing number and avail all the perks! 

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frequently asked questions

The New Vi REDX 1101 comes loaded with Lifestyle & Entertainment benefits. Every benefit is of premium category, offering an uncompromising experience. Please visit plan benefits page on Vi App for details.

There is no exit fee if you move from any older version of REDX plan to the new one.

Exit Fee will be charged when if you move out of REDX plan ie. Postpaid to Prepaid, Port-Out, Disconnection or Plan change. This fee will be applicable if International Roaming benefit was availed in the last 1 year on REDX 1101 plan.

You can log on to Vi App and go to my accounts > Active plan benefits > claim benefits section. You will be able to activate the benefits available with your plan. Sign-up using registered Vi mobile number and log on to the respective app (Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime, etc.) using the same credentials.

 

  • It is a complimentary 12 month SonyLiv Premium (TV and mobile) subscription worth Rs999, available with REDX 1101 plan; wherein 1 month = 30 days.
  • This subscription works simultaneously on 2 devices and allows you to create up to 5 profiles.  

 It is a complimentary 6 month Eazydiner Prime subscription worth Rs 2190; wherein 1 month = 30 days. Get upto 50% discount at Premium restaurants & bars with this subscription and more!

It is a complimentary 1 year subscription; wherein you can avail a flat discount of Rs 450 on one way flight tickets and Rs 700 on round trip flights every month. 

  • It is a complimentary 7 days International Roaming pack worth Rs2999
  • It is available for free only once every year.

 

You can log on to Vi App and go to claim benefits. You will be able to activate International Roaming benefit if it is available with your plan. Select the start date and activate.

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