Banking constantly evolves to keep pace with changing customer requirements and sustainability goals. In recent times, the Green PIN is the newest development in the banking sector to revolutionise the customer experience and simultaneously minimise paper wastage. 

If you have a debit or credit card, you must know what a Green PIN is and how to generate it. In this blog, we will explore what is Green PIN and understand the Green PIN generation process. 

What is Green PIN? 

When you obtain a debit or credit card, you need to activate it using a personal identification number (PIN). A Green PIN is a digitally generated code to help you activate your debit or credit card. This is a marked deviation from the traditional PIN, often mailed to the cardholder by the card issuer. 

Since a Green PIN is generated online, it reduces the usage of paper required to print and send mailers. This makes it significant in the current age, when sustainability is taking centre stage and banks and other financial institutions are taking measures to minimise the adverse environmental impact of their operations. 

How to Generate a Green PIN?

Now that you know the meaning of this eco-friendly PIN, let’s get into the details of what Green PIN generation is and how you can do this easily. Green PIN generation is the process of creating and using a PIN for your debit or credit card, so you can activate the card and use it to make payments or cash withdrawals. 

You can generate your Green PIN in several ways, as outlined below. The exact process may vary slightly depending on the entity that issued your card. 

Option 1: Green PIN Generation using an ATM

• Visit any ATM of the bank that issued your credit/debit card. 
• Insert the card into the ATM’s slot and choose the PIN generation option in the menu.
• Authenticate your identity by providing your account number and/or registered mobile number.
• You will then receive an OTP on your mobile number. 
• Enter the OTP during its validity period to set your Green PIN and activate your card.

Option 2: Green PIN Generation via Mobile or Internet Banking

• Log into your mobile banking or internet banking account. 
• Choose the card for which you wish to generate a Green PIN. 
• Select the PIN generation option and provide the details required, like your registered mobile number. 
• You will then receive an OTP, which you must enter online to generate your Green PIN. 

Option 3: Green PIN Generation through SMS

• Your bank or credit card issuer will specify a distinct SMS format for generating a Green PIN via this route. 
• Send the specific SMS from your registered mobile number to the number mentioned by your bank. 
• An OTP will be sent to you, and you can use it to generate your Green PIN and start using your credit/debit card. 

Option 4: Green PIN Generation with a Missed Call

• Here too, your bank or credit card issuer will have a distinct number that you can call to generate your Green PIN. 
• Give a missed call to this number from your registered mobile number. 
• The OTP will be sent to your registered number, and you can use it to activate your card. 

The Benefits of Using Green PINs

Using Green PINs to activate a debit or credit card has many advantages — both for the card issuer and the cardholder. Here’s a closer look at the top benefits. 

• Reduces the use and wastage of paper
• Cuts down on postage costs and delivery charges for banks
• Easy and near-instant PIN generation for cardholders
• Improved security due to OTPs sent only to registered mobile numbers
• Flexibility for the cardholder to activate the card from anywhere at any time

Summing Up

This should give you a clear idea of what a Green PIN is and how it can be generated. If you have been issued a credit or debit card recently, check if the issuer offers this option because it is more sustainable and eco-friendly. Additionally, you must not share your PIN or OTP with anybody else. 

Sustainable and Easy Online Banking Via Fi Money

If you want to contribute to a greener future, online banking with the Fi Money app can take you closer to this goal. You can open a Federal Bank zero-balance savings account online in 3 minutes via the Fi Money app. No paperwork and no hidden fees! By reducing the use of paper for your everyday banking transactions and services, you can do your part to reduce paper wastage and protect the planet. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Green PIN, and how does it differ from a traditional PIN for debit or credit cards?

A Green PIN is an instant digital PIN that is generated online for debit or credit card activation. It is considered green or eco-friendly since it minimises the usage of paper needed to print and share physical PIN mailers.

2. What are the primary benefits of using a Green PIN for cardholders and financial institutions?

For cardholders, a Green PIN improves data security and allows for near-instant card activation. For financial institutions, the benefits include cost efficiency and improved goodwill on account of sustainable practices. 

3. How can one generate a Green PIN for their debit or credit card, and what is the process involved?

It is possible to generate a Green PIN via an ATM, SMS, missed call, IVR or internet banking. The process depends on the method you choose and the card issuer. 

4. Are there any security concerns or risks associated with the use of Green PINs?

Green PINs are generally safe since they are only generated once you place a request. Additionally, they are directly sent to your phone or conveyed over a call.

5. Can a Green PIN be used immediately after generation, or is there a waiting period before it becomes active for transactions?

Yes, your Green PIN can be used immediately after it is generated. However, it generally remains valid for 72 hours (or any other time limit set by your credit/debit card issuer).