Terminology

From 3G to IMEI numbers, the language of cellphones can be quite confusing; allow us to make everything clear. Simply search for the term you’d like more information on and we’ll provide you with a simple and easy-to-understand explanation.

SIM Card Faults

Type of fault	Description	Solution
SIM rejected	The PUK code has been entered incorrectly nine times, and the SIM card has self-destructed.	The SIM card needs to be replaced by doing a SIM Swap.
Insert SIM	The SIM card or the handset is faulty.	To find out where the problem lies, insert the SIM card into another handset. If the SIM card is faulty, it will need to be replaced. If the handset is faulty, the appropriate action will have to be taken.
SIM not registered /SIM card registration failed	The SIM card in not registered on the network.	Call Customer Care Helpline (922) or visit your nearest Service Centre or Connect Store to find out why the SIM card has not been activated.

Personal Identification Number (PIN)

Two PIN numbers are now available on all new SIM cards:

PIN 1 is a four- to eight-digit access code which is used to secure a cellphone from use and must be entered by the customer to gain access to the network.
PIN 2 is a four- to eight-digit access code which can be used to access additional features and functions of the handset. Although the handset may have these functions, they may not be supported by the MTN Network.

The standard default for PIN 1 and 2 and for both pre-paid and post-paid SIM cards is 00000. Customers must, however, be strongly advised to personalise their PIN numbers to protect the SIM card from unauthorised usage.

It is important to remember that all new SIM cards are issued with the PIN code facility switched off. This facility must be activated via the handset before changing the PIN code.

PIN code change procedures are handset dependent, but the global standard may be used on most handsets. This is done by entering the following code:
**04*Old PIN*New PIN code*Repeat New PIN code#

Personal Unblocking Key (PUK)

When a PIN code is entered three times, the SIM card will block itself to prevent it from being used. The PUK is an eight-digit code that is required to unblock the SIM card.

PUK 1 is used to unblock PIN 1.
PUK 2 is used to unblock PIN 2.

Note: If a PUK number is entered incorrectly nine times, the SIM card will self-destruct, and a new SIM card will need to be swapped by the customer by providing the following:

Identity document (ID)
Three frequently called numbers

The following messages displayed on the handset when a SIM card has been blocked:

Blocked
Unblock code/PUK code
Enter new PIN
Confirm new PIN

To obtain a PUK number

Pre-paid and post-paid customers must contact MTN Customer Services by dialling 922, visiting an MTN Service Centre or sending the MSIDN to 6000.
Alternatively, the PUK code is also printed on the full SIM card when a new SIM is purchased and can be kept in a safe place until the SIM needs to be unblocked.

The procedure for entering a PUK code differs from handset to handset. The global standard may, however, be used on most handsets and is done by entering the following code: **05*PUK number*PIN code*Repeat PIN code#

MSISDN

Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network

The MSISDN is the cellular telephone number.
The MSISDN provides information which identifies the customer and his or her network operator.
Storing names and numbers
- Local format: 604 0001
- International format: +268 604 0001

International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI)

The IMEI is a 15 digit serial number which includes information on the origin, make and model of a cellular handset. This serial number is vital as it is used to blacklist a stolen handset.

The IMEI number can be found

on the back of the handset, once the battery has been removed,
on the original handset packaging and
on the original proof of purchase.

A simple and easy way to access the IMEI number of the handset is by entering the following code: *#06#.