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All About PINs

Published Date
Author Ben Breitbart

“PIN” is short-form for Personal Identification Number. A PIN is a 4-digit code that’s unique to you and your card. Your PIN replaces your signature as the method of authorizing your credit card purchases. Your PIN, along with the chip embedded in your card, is a credit card technology that increases security to help reduce fraud if your credit card is ever lost or stolen.

You’ll be able to choose your own PIN, but there are a few number combinations that you won’t be able to use. Here are some guidelines we have for choosing your PIN:

  • Your PIN can't use the same digit 4 times (e.g., 1111) or 4 consecutive numbers (e.g., 1234)
  • Any PIN beginning with 0 may not work internationally, so we recommend not using a PIN that begins with 0
  • Use a PIN that’s unique to your Capital One account and not used with any other cards or accounts. It should be difficult for others to guess but easy for you to remember
  • Avoid using your or a family member’s birthday, the first or last 4 digits of your social insurance number or parts of your address or phone number