A start PIN, often used when opening a bank account or a mobile wallet, is a one-time activation code that allows you to access the service so you can set your PIN.
Upon entering the correct start PIN sent to you via SMS, you are prompted to set and confirm your new PIN.
In Kenya, some of the services that use a start PIN service include:
- Banks when enabling mobile banking
- Credit and debit cards
- M-Pesa activation code
- Airtel Money
Banks: When it comes to banks, the process of setting a start PIN will vary depending on the bank’s procedures.
Typically, when you get a new bank card, you are either given a temporary PIN that you must change at an ATM or through the bank’s online platform, or you are prompted to create a PIN when you activate your card.
Airtel Money: Just like M-PESA, when you register for Airtel Money, you are given a start PIN that you need to change to a PIN of your choice for security purposes.