The PIN Code of the Multibanco Card remains the first safety barrier against unduly burlas and uses. Although it seems simple, there are choices that can endanger money without the holder.
Many Portuguese also resort to easy combinations of memorizing, such as birth dates or repeated numbers. The problem is that these are precisely the first that the burns test in situations of attempted fraud. Predictability transforms a routine gesture into a weakness.
Another frequent error involves the habit of using the same PIN code sequence on multiple cards. If one of them is compromised, all the rest are exposed to the same risk. The diversity of codes is essential to reduce damage to data theft.
The method of the two anchors
An effective way to create a strong pin is to resort to personal associations that only make sense for one’s own. Instead of dates or public codes, two private references can be chosen and apply a transformation rule, generating a seemingly random sequence.
This method allows memorizing the code without writing or sharing it. In addition to increasing safety, it facilitates memory in moments of pressure, such as raising money or in a high value purchase.
Imagine, for example, that the ‘anchors’ are 4 and 7 and the base number is 3021. The calculation is like this: 3+4 = 7, 0+7 = 7, 2+4 = 6 and 1+7 = 8. The final PIN will be 7768, a code that seems difficult to guess, but only know how to generate.
In the case of banks that allow six digits, the technique can be adapted, making the password even harder to guess. More numbers mean more possible combinations and greater resistance to guessing attempts.
Care in daily use
It is not enough to have a strong pin, it is also necessary to protect the way it is used. One of the most important gestures is always to cover the keyboard, even if there seems to be no one around. Small movements can be observed at a distance.
Another caution is to vary the way you type, avoiding repetitive patterns of touches that become recognizable for those who watch carefully. Adding “distraction” movements helps make it difficult to read the gestures.
It is also worth paying attention to the state of the keyboard and the mobile phone screen. Fat marks or scratches can report which numbers are most commonly used, facilitating deduction by malicious third parties.
When to change pin
It is advisable to change the PIN from time to time or whenever there is a risk situation. Loss of portfolio, use in doubtful terminals or suspicious movements are clear signs that the password should be replaced.
Establishing an annual change routine is another way to reduce vulnerabilities. Periodic rotation prevents the same code from circulating for years in compromised databases or cloning schemes.
Whenever the password changes, it is recommended to avoid returning to previously used numbers. The choice should always be new, maintaining personal logic that facilitates memorization.
Additional Security Measures
In addition to PIN, banks offer SMS alert systems or application that report on each movement made with the card. Activating these notifications allows you to quickly detect any unauthorized use.
Reducing daily lifting and payment limits is another measure that can minimize losses in case of fraud. If improper use occurs, the impact will be much lower than if the limits are at the maximum allowed value.
Finally, the recommendation of is never to share PIN, not even with close family members. In situations of need, the safest is for the holder to perform the operation instead of delegating to third parties.
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