PINkoode

PINkoode is a term used to refer to a Personal Identification Number (PIN) used to authenticate a user’s identity in electronic systems. The acronym PIN stands for Personal Identification Number. PIN codes are typically numeric strings entered on keypads to verify authorization when accessing banking cards, mobile devices, computers, and secure facilities. In many countries the standard length of a PIN for ATMs and payment cards is four digits, though six-digit or longer PINs are used in some contexts and alphanumeric PINs are available in some systems.

PIN systems emerged with automated teller machines in the 1960s and have since become a core security control in consumer electronics and finance. PINs are intended to be known only by the user and are usually processed by secure hardware with encryption. Reused or easily guessed PINs (e.g., 0000, 1234) are common weaknesses.

Security best practices include using unique PINs for different accounts, avoiding obvious patterns, not writing down PINs, shielding input from others, and enabling additional factors of authentication when possible. Devices and services may lock after several failed attempts, and some use a PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) or recovery process to regain access.

In payment networks, PIN entry is often encrypted at capture and validated by the issuer or network using specialized keys and protocols. See also PUK, passcode, biometric authentication.