PIN vs Password, Which is more secure?

If you use smartphones, you are likely familiar with the many security features they offer. You may use passwords to log in to online accounts while a PIN code is commonly used to unlock your phone’s screen. But the question is: which of the two is more secure?

A password can be used to log in to multiple online accounts whereas a PIN code provides access to the system of a specific local device. In simple terms, a copy of your password is stored somewhere on website servers while a PIN code is linked only to your device.

Now imagine that someone gains access to your password. They could use it to access different accounts and steal your personal information. If the same person has your PIN code however, they can generally use it only on the device for which that PIN was created.

In other words, a PIN cannot normally be used remotely which makes it more secure in this respect. At the same time, you can also use a PIN to log in to websites or apps by enabling the passkey option instead of passwords.

Passkeys are essentially digital keys that are easy to use and more secure because they are not stored on web servers. Instead of requiring a long password, this technology can use a four-digit PIN or biometric information to authenticate a user.

When the passkey option is enabled on a website or app, you may need to enter your PIN to gain access. Since the PIN itself is not transmitted over the internet, a hacker cannot intercept it and use it for malicious purposes.

Even if someone manages to hack the device, the PIN is encrypted whereas passwords do not have the same level of protection in this context. Although a PIN can be more secure than a password in certain situations, you still need to choose a strong PIN.

If you use a simple PIN such as 1234 or another easily predictable combination, it can be much easier for someone to gain access to your device.