SCFT Digital Service Desk - Mon to Fri 07:30 - 17:30
Change to Smartcard PIN requirements - UPDATE
Lee Palacios
Dear colleagues,
Following feedback on our recent communication on the changes to Smartcard passcode requirements, we are issuing this URGENT clarification.
Users DO NOT need to change their passcode immediately.
The change is ONLY enforced when:
- a new user is given a card and needs to set their passcode.
- an existing user gets a new smartcard and needs to set a passcode.
- an existing user has locked their card and either self-unlocks or is assisted in unlocking their card.
- a user wishes to change their passcode and either changes it themselves or is assisted in changing it.
- an existing smartcard is repaired.
We apologise for any confusion caused with the previous communications.
The minimum PIN length on all smartcards will change from 4 to 6-8 numbers only. As part of this you will also not be able to use letters as part of the PIN.
The change will take affect from Wednesday 19 July 2023.
Please ensure that the PIN you use is not easy to guess and contains 6-8 numbers only – avoid using birthdays.
Remember that your PIN is the safety check that proves that you are using the card.
All operations performed using that card are linked to you, so do not share the PIN with anyone.
If you have any queries about this change, please contact your local Registration Authority.
For more information see here: https://digital.nhs.uk/services/care-identity-service/latest-news/change-to-smartcard-pin-requirements
This message has been sent on behalf of the Care Identity Service team at NHS England.
Kind regards
National RA