If you’ve got an Amazon Echo speaker with a range of features or skills enabled, then it’s important to ensure that no unauthorized individuals are using Alexa to access private information or make purchases without your permission.
This is where a PIN can come in handy. you may protect certain sensitive elements with a voice-controlled PIN, keeping you and other users safe. So, how does this work, and how can you enable it?
Do You Need to Set Up a PIN for My Amazon Echo?
Most of us have PIN protection set up on our phones or laptops, but using a PIN on your smart speaker is much less common. Is there really any reason to set up a PIN on your Echo?
It’s important to first note that a PIN doesn’t block all features. Someone without the PIN can use Alexa for simple functions, such as asking a simple question, skipping a track, or turning the speaker on and off. Rather, this PIN safeguards skills.
Alexa skills are little add-on features you’re able to use to do more with your speaker. With these skills, you can check the weather, listen to audiobooks, play games, learn pop culture trivia, and even learn daily buzzwords. There’s an endless list ofgreat Alexa skills you can add to your device, but some of these skills require more sensitive access and information.
For instance, there are various Alexa skills that allow you to control your smart home devices, such as your smart bulbs and smart thermostat. Some skills allow you to start up your EV before you enter it, and skills that let you check your bank account balance and make payments. Evidently, there’s quite a lot that a malicious individual can get away with using simple voice commands.
To safeguard against such a threat, it’s wise to set up an Alexa voice PIN. When you say this PIN out loud to your Alexa speaker, you can then access protected skills.
So, how can you do this?
How to Set Up an Alexa Voice PIN
To set up an Alexa voice PIN, you’ll first need to head to the Alexa app for iOS or Android. Then, head to theMoretab at the bottom-right of the screen.
From here, selectSettings > Your Profile and Family > PIN. After selecting this option, you’ll have to confirm your mobile number as a security precaution. Amazon will send you a confirmation code via text, which you then enter within the app. Now, you can set up your four-digit PIN.
Also make sure to see more ways you canmaintain your privacy while using Alexa.
An Alexa Voice PIN Keeps You Safe
By setting up a simple Alexa voice PIN, you’re able to keep your private information safe and secure the accounts connected to your Alexa device. It only takes a minute or two to set up, and it could protect you from nosy or malicious individuals.
