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# SIM blocked? How to get your PUK and unblock your SIM
- URL: https://chale.tech/unblock-sim-card-puk/
- Published: 2026-10-27T10:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-27T10:00:00.000Z
- Description: Entered the wrong SIM PIN three times? You need your PUK. On MTN you can get it in the MyMTN app, from Zigi on WhatsApp or through *1333#. Here is how, and why you must not guess the PUK.
- Author: Isaac Nana Yaw Annor
- Tags: How-To, Phones

If your phone says “SIM blocked” or “Enter PUK”, someone entered the wrong SIM PIN too many times (often a child playing with the phone). The SIM is not broken: you need the 8-digit **PUK** (PIN Unblocking Key) to reset it.

**Do not guess the PUK.** After too many wrong attempts, the SIM is permanently blocked and you will need a replacement SIM.

## Where to find your PUK

### 1\. The SIM card pack

The plastic card your SIM came on usually has the PUK printed on it.

### 2\. MTN: get it yourself

- **MyMTN app:** MTN says your PUK is shown in your profile (More → My Account on some versions).
- **Zigi on WhatsApp:** chat with MTN’s Zigi on **0554300000**, choose “Request for OTP” or “Continue as Guest”, then “Get PUK”.
- **Self-service:** dial **\*1333#** → 1 (Access Services) → enter your Self-Service PIN → 4 (Get your PUK) → 1 (for self) → 1 (confirm). New to \*1333#? Dial it to register a Self-Service PIN.

You can use the app or WhatsApp from another phone if yours is locked.

### 3\. Telecel and AT

Contact customer care from another phone: Telecel on 100 or WhatsApp 050 100 0300; AT on 100\. Have your Ghana Card details ready to confirm the SIM is yours.

## Unblock the SIM

1. Enter the PUK when the phone asks.
2. Choose a new SIM PIN and confirm it.
3. Write the new PIN somewhere safe.

## Permanently blocked?

Get a SIM replacement with your Ghana Card at a service centre. MTN also offers online SIM replacement requests on its online request site. See [lost or stolen phone: what to do first](https://chale.tech/lost-or-stolen-phone-what-to-do-first/).

*This guide was checked in October 2026\. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.*

## Common questions

### Where do I find my PUK?

On the card your SIM came on, or from your network. MTN offers the MyMTN app, Zigi on WhatsApp and the \*1333# self-service menu.

### What happens if I enter the wrong PUK?

After too many wrong PUK attempts the SIM is permanently blocked and you need a replacement. Do not guess.

### Is the PUK the same as my MoMo PIN?

No. The PUK unlocks the SIM card. Your MoMo PIN protects your wallet. Never share either with strangers.

### How do I turn off the SIM PIN?

In your phone’s security settings (SIM card lock) once the SIM is unlocked. Keeping it on adds protection if your phone is stolen.

## Sources

- [MTN Ghana help centre: How do I get my PUK?](https://help-center.mtn.com.gh/hc/en-us/articles/4405588063506?ref=chale.tech)
- [MTN Ghana help centre: How do I get my PUK if my starter pack is missing?](https://help-center.mtn.com.gh/hc/en-us/articles/4402358565010?ref=chale.tech)
- [Telecel Ghana: Contact us](https://telecel.com.gh/contact-us/?ref=chale.tech)