Ever had that moment of panic when you're at the till, card in hand, and your PIN has completely vanished from your memory? We've all been there! Fortunately, in this digital age, managing your banking is becoming increasingly convenient. Nationwide Building Society, a trusted name in banking, is rolling out features to make your financial life smoother, including the ability to view your PIN directly in their mobile app.
While previously you might have had to wait for a PIN reminder in the post, Nationwide has confirmed that the ability to view your existing PIN in the Mobile Banking App is being introduced later this year (2025). This is a game-changer for those moments when you just need a quick reminder!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the anticipated steps to view your PIN on the Nationwide app once this feature is fully live.
Understanding Nationwide's Approach to PIN Security
Before we dive into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand Nationwide's commitment to security. PINs are a cornerstone of your financial protection. Because of this, banks traditionally don't allow you to simply "see" your PIN online or over the phone. Instead, they typically send a reminder by post for security reasons.
However, the banking landscape is evolving, and with robust app security measures like biometric login (fingerprint, face ID) and secure passnumbers, banks are beginning to offer more convenient ways to manage your PINs within their secure apps. Nationwide is at the forefront of this, and the upcoming app feature will reflect this progress.
Step 1: Get Ready for the PIN Viewing Feature!
First things first, let's ensure you're all set for when this exciting new feature becomes available.
Sub-heading: Ensure Your App is Up-to-Date
- Are you using the latest version of the Nationwide Banking App? This is absolutely crucial! Banks frequently update their apps with new features, security enhancements, and bug fixes.
- How to check: Go to your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS). Search for "Nationwide Banking App" and see if there's an "Update" button. If there is, tap it!
- Why it matters: New features, like viewing your PIN, will only be available on the most recent app versions.
Sub-heading: Confirm Your Device Security
- Nationwide's app is designed with strong security in mind. To use sensitive features like PIN viewing, your device itself needs to be secure.
- Set up a strong device lock: Ensure you have a PIN, pattern, fingerprint, or face ID set up on your phone.
- Enable biometric login for the Nationwide app (if available): This adds an extra layer of security and convenience, often allowing quicker access to your account without needing to type your full passnumber every time.
Step 2: Accessing Your Nationwide Banking App
This is where your journey to viewing your PIN begins!
Sub-heading: Launch the App
- Locate the Nationwide Banking App icon on your smartphone or tablet and tap to open it. It usually has the Nationwide blue and white logo.
Sub-heading: Log In Securely
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You'll be prompted to log in. Depending on your setup, this could be:
- Your Passnumber: This is a unique number you set up specifically for the app.
- Fingerprint or Face Recognition (Biometrics): If you've enabled this, it's often the quickest and most secure way to get in. Simply follow the on-screen prompts for your chosen biometric method.
Remember: Always ensure you are in a private space when logging in and viewing sensitive information.
Step 3: Navigating to the Card Management Section
Once you're securely logged in, you'll need to find the right place within the app.
Sub-heading: Find Your Accounts Overview
- Upon logging in, you'll typically see an overview of your accounts (current accounts, savings, credit cards).
- Look for a menu icon or a clear navigation bar. This is often located in the top corner (three horizontal lines, a "More" button, or "Menu").
Sub-heading: Select Your Card
- Within the menu or main screen, look for an option related to your cards or accounts. This might be labelled:
- "Manage Cards"
- "Cards & Payments"
- "My Accounts" (and then select a specific debit/credit card)
Tap on the specific card for which you wish to view the PIN. For example, if you have a current account debit card and a credit card, ensure you select the correct one.
Step 4: Locating the "View PIN" Option (Anticipated Feature)
This is the exciting part, where you'll find the new PIN viewing functionality.
Sub-heading: Look for PIN Services
- Once you've selected the relevant card, you'll typically see a range of options related to that card. Look for options like:
- "PIN Services"
- "Manage PIN"
- "View PIN"
- "Forgotten PIN" (this new feature will likely be an enhancement to this section)
The exact wording may vary slightly as Nationwide rolls out the feature, but it will be intuitively placed within the card management section.
Sub-heading: Authorise and View
- When you tap "View PIN" (or similar), for security purposes, the app will likely require you to re-authenticate. This is a standard security measure to ensure it's genuinely you trying to access sensitive information.
- This might involve re-entering your Passnumber, using fingerprint/face recognition, or even a one-time passcode (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number.
- Once successfully authenticated, your PIN will be displayed on the screen.
- Important Note: For security, the PIN may only be displayed for a limited time (e.g., 10-15 seconds) or require you to hold down a button to keep it visible, similar to how some other banking apps operate. This is to prevent others from seeing your PIN if you leave your device unattended.
- Memorise your PIN carefully and then ensure you close the app or navigate away from the PIN viewing screen. Do not write your PIN down where others can find it.
Step 5: Logging Out and Staying Secure
Once you've viewed your PIN, it's important to complete the process securely.
Sub-heading: Log Out of the App
- Always, always, log out of your banking app when you are finished. Do not simply close the app. Look for a "Log Out" or "Sign Out" option in the menu. This ensures your session is terminated and your account remains secure.
Sub-heading: Keep Your PIN Confidential
- Now that you've refreshed your memory of your PIN, continue to keep it confidential.
- Never share your PIN with anyone, not even Nationwide staff.
- Never write your PIN down in an unsecured location.
- Cover your hand when entering your PIN at ATMs or payment terminals.
Additional Tips for Managing Your PIN and Account Security
- Regularly Review Your Account: Keep an eye on your transactions and statements within the app to spot any unusual activity.
- Be Wary of Phishing: Nationwide will never ask you for your full PIN via email, text, or phone call. Be suspicious of any communication that does.
- Report Lost/Stolen Cards Immediately: If your card is lost or stolen, you can typically freeze or report it directly through the Nationwide app or by calling their dedicated lines.
- Update Contact Details: Ensure your phone number and email address are always up-to-date with Nationwide, as these are used for security verification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to view my PIN on Nationwide app if the feature isn't available yet?
As of June 2025, Nationwide has indicated this feature will be available later in the year. Until then, you can request a PIN reminder via the Internet Bank, over the phone, or in a branch, and it will be sent to your registered address by post within 3-5 working days.
How to reset my Nationwide app passnumber?
If you've forgotten your passnumber for the app, you can typically reset it by tapping "Forgotten passnumber" on the login screen. You may need your Visa debit card and a card reader to complete the reset.
How to unlock my Nationwide PIN if it's locked?
If your PIN is locked (e.g., after three incorrect attempts), you can only unlock it at a UK ATM with the LINK sign. Insert your card, enter the correct PIN, select "Other," then "PIN services," and finally "PIN unlock."
How to change my Nationwide PIN?
You can change your PIN at any UK ATM with the LINK sign. Insert your card, enter your existing PIN, select "PIN services," then "PIN change," and follow the prompts to choose a new PIN.
How to get a new card reader from Nationwide?
You can usually order a new card reader online through the Nationwide website, by calling their customer service, or by visiting a branch.
How to find my Nationwide customer number?
You can find your customer number in the banking app (Menu > Details & Settings > Your details), on your online banking registration welcome letter, or using your Visa debit card and card reader via the customer number look-up tool on their website.
How to set up biometric login (fingerprint/face ID) on the Nationwide app?
Once logged into the app, navigate to "Details & Settings" or "Security Settings." You should find an option to enable "Touch ID," "Face ID," or "Biometric Login." Follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.
How to contact Nationwide customer service for PIN issues?
You can contact Nationwide customer service by phone (numbers are available on their official website) or by visiting your nearest branch. They can assist with requesting PIN reminders or other account queries.
How to ensure my Nationwide app is secure?
Always keep your app updated, use a strong and unique device password, enable biometric login, be cautious of unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and never share your login details or PIN with anyone.
How to find out if the "view PIN" feature is live in my Nationwide app?
The best way is to keep your app updated and regularly check the "Card Management" or "PIN Services" section for any new options like "View PIN." Nationwide will also likely announce the full rollout of this feature through their official communication channels (website, app notifications).
