How To Easily Reset Your Sterling Bank USSD PIN
Sterling Bank offers a convenient USSD banking service that allows customers to conduct key transactions via text-based menus on their mobile phones. To access the service, you enter a shortcode *822# and navigate using a 4-digit USSD PIN.
If you forget or need to change your Sterling Bank USSD PIN for any reason, you have several secure options to reset it. Here is a detailed guide on how to easily reset your Sterling Bank USSD PIN using the mobile app, by calling customer service, or by visiting a branch.
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Overview of Sterling Bank’s USSD Service
Let’s first understand what USSD is all about. USSD, which stands for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data, is a protocol used by mobile operators to communicate with a bank’s systems.
At its core, USSD allows you to interact with your Sterling Bank account right on your mobile phone, without needing mobile data or an internet connection.
To use USSD with Sterling Bank, simply dial *822# on your phone. This will bring up Sterling’s text-based banking menu. You will then enter your 4-digit PIN when prompted.
With your PIN, you can check account balance, transfer funds, pay bills, buy airtime, and much more. USSD provides quick access without installing any apps or using mobile data.
However, to keep your account secure, you need to ensure your USSD PIN does not fall into the wrong hands. Read on to learn how to reset your PIN securely.
Method 1: Reset USSD PIN via Sterling Mobile App
The most convenient and fastest way to reset your Sterling USSD PIN is directly via the Sterling Mobile app. Here is a step-by-step walkthrough:
Step 1: Download the Sterling Mobile App
If you don’t already have it, download the Sterling Mobile app on your Android or iOS phone. You can find the links to download below:
- Android: Download from Google Play Store
- iOS: Download from Apple App Store
Step 2: Login to the App
Open the Sterling Mobile app and login with your standard username and password that you use for online banking.
If you have trouble logging in, use the app’s forgot password feature to reset your online banking password first.
Step 3: Go to Settings/Profile
Once logged into the app, navigate to the Settings or Profile section, accessible via the side menu.
Step 4: Find USSD PIN Reset Option
Within Settings/Profile, look for the menu option to “Change USSD PIN” or “Reset USSD PIN” and select it.
Step 5: Enter New 4-Digit USSD PIN
Follow the on-screen prompts to enter a new 4-digit PIN of your choice. Avoid using personal information that could be guessed.
And that’s it! Your Sterling USSD PIN will now be reset to the new PIN you set up on the mobile app. It is the fastest and most secure method.
Method 2: Reset Via Customer Care Call
If you are unable to access Sterling’s mobile app, the next best option is to call Sterling Bank’s customer care hotline and request PIN reset over the phone.
Step 1: Call Customer Care Hotline
Use your phone to dial Sterling Bank’s 24/7 customer care hotline: +234 1 270 0000
Step 2: Request USSD PIN Reset
When the call connects and a agent comes on the line, explain that you need to reset your USSD banking PIN.
Step 3: Answer Security Questions
The agent will ask you identifying questions to verify your identity and account ownership. Questions could include:
- Personal information like name, address, date of birth
- Account details like branch, account number
- Recent transaction details
- Pre-set security questions/answers
Step 4: Receive OTP Code
Once your identity is confirmed, the agent will generate a one-time password (OTP) and read it out on the call.
Step 5: Enter and Confirm OTP
When prompted by the agent, enter the OTP you received on your phone’s keypad. This will authorize the PIN reset.
Step 6: Set New PIN
Finally, follow the agent’s instructions to set a new 4-digit USSD PIN over the phone. Avoid using obvious number combinations.
And you’re done! This convenient process allows you to quickly regain access to your Sterling Bank USSD service if you get locked out or forget your PIN.
Method 3: USSD PIN Reset at Sterling Branch
You can also choose to reset your Sterling Bank USSD PIN by physically visiting a Sterling Bank branch near you:
Step 1: Locate Nearest Branch
Identify the most convenient Sterling Bank branch using the branch locator on their website:
Step 2: Visit During Banking Hours
Go to the branch during regular banking hours when customer service officers are available to assist you.
Step 3: Request USSD PIN Reset
Meet the customer service officer and request to reset your Sterling Bank USSD PIN.
Step 4: Provide Account Details
The officer will ask for personal ID and your Sterling account details for verification. Provide accurate information.
Step 5: Answer Security Questions
You may need to answer some security questions to confirm account ownership.
Step 6: Set New USSD PIN
Once verified, the officer will help you set a new 4-digit USSD PIN on their system.
While branch visits take more effort, some customers may prefer the in-person assistance for USSD PIN reset.
Important Security Tips
When resetting your Sterling Bank USSD PIN, keep the following security best practices in mind:
- Never share your PIN with anyone, including bank staff.
- Avoid writing or storing the PIN anywhere accessible by others.
- Enable SMS notifications to monitor USSD transactions on your account.
- Choose a random PIN that is hard to guess. Avoid birthdays, phone numbers etc.
- If you suspect your PIN is compromised, reset it immediately via one of the methods discussed.
- Only call Sterling’s official customer care number listed on their website when reaching out.
- When visiting a branch, ensure it is an authentic Sterling Bank location before entering.
- After resetting your PIN, avoid using the same PIN again as it may be compromised.
- Memorize your new PIN instead of writing it down for better security.
Conclusion
In summary, Sterling Bank offers multiple secure options to reset your forgotten or compromised USSD banking PIN. Using their mobile app is the fastest and most convenient option.
Alternatively, their customer service agents can guide you through resetting the PIN over a call or at a local branch.
Whichever option you choose, remember to take precautions and treat your USSD PIN as confidential information. Proper PIN hygiene is crucial to safeguard your banking access and funds.
With this handy guide, you can now easily reset your Sterling Bank USSD PIN using the mobile app, customer care, or by visiting a branch near you.
FAQs
Does resetting my USSD PIN disable other services?
No, resetting your USSD PIN only affects access to USSD banking. Your debit card PIN, mobile/internet banking passwords remain unchanged and fully functional.
Can I reset my USSD PIN multiple times?
Yes, you can reset your Sterling USSD PIN as many times as required through the approved methods discussed in this article. There is no limit.
I lost my phone. Should I reset my USSD PIN?
If you still remember your PIN, no reset is required. But if your lost phone contained written or saved PIN records, resetting it would be a wise precaution.
Is there a fee to change my Sterling USSD PIN?
No, Sterling Bank does not charge any fee to reset your USSD banking PIN, regardless of the method used. It is completely free.
How long does it take to update my new PIN?
The new PIN becomes active almost instantly through the mobile app method. For other methods, it may take up to 24 hours to fully update across all banking systems.