The PIN is a personal identification number, having 4 to 6 digits. It is used to sign in to the user’s Windows computer. Also, It is a replacement for a password. Compared to using a password, it is quicker and more practical.
In this blog, we’ll explore the safety impact of using a PIN on Windows boot. It also discusses the steps one should take to keep one’s computer secure. Let us first discuss the advantages of using a PIN on Windows boot.
Why should we use a PIN on Windows boot?
Using a PIN on Windows boot has several advantages over using a password:
Faster Access:
A PIN can be faster to type than a password. This makes it an easier option for many users.
Better Security :
A PIN is stored locally on the user’s device. This makes it more secure than a password. Because a password is stored on a remote server. Moreover, if someone has access to the user’s PIN, they can’t access the user’s personal computer without having physical access to it.
Easier to use on touchscreen devices:
A PIN is easier to use than a password on a touchscreen device.
Why should no one use a PIN on Windows Boot?
While using a PIN on Windows boot is convenient and offers improved security, there are some potential pitfalls to consider:
Easier to crack:
A PIN is shorter and hence, less complex than a password. It makes it easier to guess or crack.
Prone to phishing attacks:
A hacker can have access to your PIN through a phishing attack. Thus they will access the user’s device without needing a password.
Prone to Brute force attacks:
A hacker tries multiple combinations until they guess the right PIN. Though windows have inbuilt safeguards against it.
Inconvenience if you forget the PIN
To prevent brute force attack, windows provide a limited number of attempts for entering PIN. But sometimes we forget the PIN. In this case, due to multiple attempts, windows lock our access for a certain time. This causes inconvenience and frustration.
But you can ensure the safety of your computer while using PIN.
This is discussed as follows :
How to keep your computer secure when using a PIN on Windows boot?
Choose a relevant PIN:
It should be at least six digits long. It should include letters, alphabet, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using the words like your name or date of birth. As they are easily guessed.
Enable two-factor authentication:
The user can use a security key as an extra layer of security. It authenticates the login.
Regularly update the system:
The user should periodically install the Windows updates. It protects your system from known vulnerabilities.
Use the latest antivirus software:
They protect your computer system against various attacks.
Be cautious of phishing attacks:
Hackers can convince you to share your PIN through phishing attacks. Users should not respond to emails or messages asking for their PIN. The user should not share it with anyone.
Enable locking of your device due to frequent login attempts:
The user should set up a lockout policy that will lock the device after a certain number of failed login attempts. This can save the devices from this access not permitted.
Disable PIN sign-in on untrusted devices:
If you sign in to your Microsoft account on an untrusted device, the user should disable PIN sign-in to prevent your PIN from being compromised.
The Way Forward:
Using a PIN on Windows boot is a convenient and secure way to sign in to your computer. The user should use a complex PIN, and enable two-factor authentication. the user should also keep the computer up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions !!!
Question: Define PIN for Windows boot.
Answer: The full form of a PIN is a personal identification number. It is used to access and authenticate user accounts on Windows devices. A PIN for Windows boot is entered before the device boots up. It is employed to verify the user’s identity.
Question: How can a user set up a PIN for Windows boot?
Answer: This is a very easy process. The user must go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and click on “Add” under PIN. The user must then follow every step as shown on the screen.
Question: Can a user, use the same PIN for Windows boot as her Windows login PIN?
Answer: Yes, The user can use the same PIN for Windows boot as their Windows login PIN.
Question: Is using a PIN for Windows boot by a user more secure than a password?
Answer: Yes, using a PIN for Windows boot is generally more secure than using a password. Because a PIN is typically shorter and more difficult to guess than a password.
Question: Can a user disable the PIN for Windows boot?
Answer: Yes, The user can disable the PIN for Windows boot. The user should go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. They should then click on “Remove” under PIN. However, this will also remove the added security of the PIN and make your device more prone to attacks.
Question: Can a user, use a PIN on a Windows domain account?
Answer: Yes, The user can use a PIN on a Windows domain account if the organization allows it. But, some organizations may require a more complex authentication, like a password or smart card.
Question: Can a user, use a PIN on multiple Windows devices?
Answer: Yes, The user can use the same PIN on multiple Windows devices. But they have to set up the PIN on each device.
Question: How does a user change her PIN for Windows?
Answer: The user should follow the simple steps. To change your PIN for Windows, go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, and then select Change under PIN.
Question: Can a user, use a PIN on Windows 10 Home edition?
Answer: Yes, The user can use a PIN on Windows 10 Home Edition.
Question: Can a user, use a PIN on Windows 7 or 8?
Answer: No, PIN authentication is available only on Windows 8.1 and Windows 10.
Question: Can a user, use a PIN in place of a password to sign in to Microsoft apps and services?
Answer: Yes, you can sign into Microsoft apps and services without using a password by using a PIN. But they must support PIN authentication.
Question: How can a user generate the correct pin?
Answer: A PIN (Personal Identification Number) is a series of numbers. It is used to authenticate and grant access to various systems or devices.
Let’s discuss methods on how to generate a secure and strong PIN:
- The user should choose a unique and random combination of numbers: The user should use easily guessable numbers such as your birthdate, address, or phone number. They should instead choose a random combination of numbers that can remember easily. But that number should not be easy to guess.
- The user should use a longer PIN: Longer PINs are more secure than shorter ones. So the user should opt for longer pins like 6 digits rather than 4 digits.
- The user should not reuse the same PIN: The user should not use the same PIN for multiple accounts or devices.
- The user should avoid common patterns: The user should avoid using common patterns such as 1234, 1111, or 0000. They are easily guessable.
- The user should use a combination of letters and numbers: Some systems allow the use of alphanumeric PINs. So the user should use a combination of letters and numbers to make their PIN more secure.
- The user should change her PIN periodically: It’s a good practice to change her PIN regularly.
The user should always practice good security habits. These include keeping your devices up-to-date, using two-factor authentication, and avoiding suspicious emails or messages.
Question: What are the Phishing attacks on PIN?
Answer: Phishing attacks on PINs can take many forms, but they generally involve tricking the user into revealing their PIN to an attacker.
- Frequent PIN reset requests: The attacker requests the user to reset the pin. They use it to gain unauthorized access to the user’s account.
- Malware that captures PINs: Malware is installed on a user’s device that captures keystrokes or takes screenshots of PIN entry fields. This allows the attacker to capture the user’s PINs without the user’s knowledge.
- Social engineering: The attacker calls the user and pretends to be from a legitimate service, such as a bank, and requests the user’s PIN.
The user should avoid falling victim to these phishing attacks on PINs. The user should have awareness of unsolicited emails or messages requesting personal information, and use strong and unique PINs.The user should not pick up phone calls from unknown numbers requesting personal information.