Ledger PIN Code: What You Need To Know
| KEY TAKEAWAYS: |
| — PIN codes are a commonly used security feature across multiple online services and digital devices, and they’re also used to make sure that only you can access your Ledger device. — When it comes to securing your PIN code, you should treat it similarly to how you would your secret recovery phrase – anybody with access to your PIN code and Ledger device can do whatever they want with your crypto. — In this article, Ledger Academy breaks down how PIN codes work within the Ledger ecosystem, as well as some crucial tips for keeping your PIN code secure and under your control |
Your Ledger device is the backbone of your digital asset security. It secures your private keys, allowing you to sign transactions on the blockchain, but it’s also isolated from an internet connection. This key feature is crucial for protecting your private keys from remote attacks.
But did you know that your Ledger device also has safeguards in place to protect it from physical access?
That’s where your device’s PIN code comes in: it’s the primary line of defense protecting your digital assets from those who might gain physical access to your device.
Your Ledger Device’s PIN Code: Explained
You’re likely familiar with PIN codes as they’re commonly used for debit cards, mobile phones, and other personal devices. The idea behind them is simple: only the person who sets up the device has access to the PIN code. Anyone else won’t be able to unlock it.
That’s why every Ledger device is protected by a 4 – 8 digit PIN code chosen when you initiate your device.
Your PIN code is the first layer of security on your Ledger device. You can’t sign a transaction on a Ledger device without the PIN code. You can’t even update the device’s firmware.
If you lose your Ledger device, it’s stolen, or otherwise falls into the wrong hands, you don’t have to worry. Without your PIN code, nobody can access your device. Moreover, if they try to guess your PIN code, your device will factory reset after three incorrect attempts.
How To Manage Your Ledger Wallet’s PIN Code
How you choose and store your PIN code will impact the security of your device, so it’s important to take the relevant steps to safeguard it.
Choose a PIN code that is impossible to guess
Since it’s the first line of defense, choosing a strong PIN code is essential. While you can choose a PIN code of just 4 digits, 8-digit PIN codes are the hardest to crack. The more numbers you use, the less likely an attacker could guess the sequence.
Make sure you also choose the most random number possible, as using easy-to-guess numbers such as loved ones’ birthdays puts your device at risk.
Don’t Let Anyone Else Know Your PIN Code
You should be the only one who knows your PIN. Firstly, that means that you must set it up yourself. Secondly, always enter your PIN code out of sight and away from prying eyes. If you think someone might know what the PIN code is, change it immediately. It’s far better to be safe than sorry.
Store Your PIN Code Offline (if you must store it at all)
The best way to store a PIN code is by memorizing it. Writing a PIN code down already opens up the possibility of it being found and read by someone else.
If you must store your PIN code somewhere, store it offline. Cloud-based storage services and internet-connected devices (such as your smartphone and laptop) are vulnerable to hacking. If a bad actor can get hold of your PIN code and your Ledger device, they can access your accounts.
PIN Code: Just One Element of Ledger’s Security Model
The PIN code is the first line of defense for your Ledger device, but it’s certainly not the last.
Ledger Devices also resist physical attacks since they incorporate a Secure Element chip: a certified secure chip capable of withstanding complex physical attacks. This is also the chip used to drive a Ledger device’s secure screen, meaning you can rest assured your screen hasn’t been tampered with and is showing the authentic transaction information.
These features are just the tip of the iceberg in Ledger’s proven Security model, providing uncompromising security for the digital asset ecosystem—and always with self-custody.
So what are you waiting for? Head to the Ledger shop to check out the full range of Ledger devices, and protect your assets with secure self-custody.
Ledger PIN Code FAQ
How many digits is the Ledger PIN Code?
The Ledger PIN code can be between 4 and 8 digits.
What happens if I get my Ledger PIN Code wrong?
You have three attempts to enter your PIN code correctly on your Ledger device. After three incorrect attempts, your device will factory reset, and you can only restore it using your secret recovery phrase.
Can I change my Ledger PIN code?
Yes, changing your PIN is easy. You just navigate to “Change PIN” within the “Settings” menu and from there you can select a new 4-8 digit PIN code. For a step-by-step guide, check out the help center article here.
I’ve lost or forgotten my PIN code, what do I do?
You likely received the message “Invalid PIN: x Attempts Left.” while trying to unlock your device. This is very often due to a typo so try putting in your PIN code again. If you have forgotten your PIN—don’t worry. As long as you’ve kept your secret recovery phrase secure and accessible, you can easily recover your accounts.
Just enter an incorrect PIN code 3 times and your device will reset automatically, erasing all of your account information. From there, you can recover your accounts using your secret recovery phrase and set a new PIN code via the wallet initialization process.