Unlocked phone asking for MCK unlock because of too many attempts

[CaitDan]

I recently got a newly refurbished unlocked S23. It was working fine, sending and receiving calls and texts normally, but then a couple days ago I took it out of my pocket and it said I was locked out of my network and needed an MCK because of too many unlock attempts. It did not allow me to try to unlock it, only dismiss the notif. I can still access the rest of my phone, but I cannot make or receive any calls. I tried checking available networks, and it listed Verizon, AT&T, T Mobile, etc. I had been using a physical sim with visible, but suddenly it started saying that it couldn't be used because it was locked to a different carrier, but I can't find any indication of carrier locking besides that. I tried switching to AT&T, but I still have the same problem. When I try resetting or restarting, it says sim invalid whether it's esim or physical. When I try searching available networks, it just gives me an error and stays on automatic network select. All sims just say unknown carrier and number. I have tried network reset, factory reset, nothing works. Please help?

[CaitDan]

I've been trying to, but it seems like I need a working sim card to contact them because they'll only go through call or text. Even their website directed me to a phone number.

[CaitDan]

Maybe? I don't know if my old phone can use an esim. I could ask to borrow a phone, but the estimated wait time was over 9 hours. That's the site I mentioned, yes. It directed me to a phone number for support.

[MarvinMod2]

Have you tried a factory reset?
An MCK (Master Control Key) code for a Samsung phone is needed when the device is locked due to too many incorrect SIM PIN or unlock code attempts. This code is specific to the device and its network lock, and is not a default code like the PIN or PUK code. To obtain the MCK code, you generally need to contact your mobile carrier, as they are the ones who can provide it.
Here's a breakdown of how to get and use the MCK code:
1. Contact your mobile carrier:
The MCK code is provided by the carrier that locked the phone to their network.
2. Provide necessary information:
You'll likely need to provide your phone's IMEI number (which you can find by dialing *#06#) and potentially other information to verify your ownership.
3. Enter the code carefully:
Once you receive the MCK code, enter it precisely as provided. Incorrect attempts can lead to further locking of your device.
4. Consider other options:
If you've already tried unlocking with the carrier's unlock code and it failed multiple times, you might need the MCK to "unfreeze" the device.
Important considerations:
Avoid multiple incorrect attempts:
Entering the wrong unlock code repeatedly can trigger the need for the MCK code and potentially lead to a permanent SIM lock.
Software updates:
Ensure your phone's software is up to date, as this can sometimes resolve unlocking issues.
Third-party services:
While some online services claim to provide MCK codes, proceed with caution and research their reputation before using them.
Factory reset:
As a last resort, a factory reset can unlock the phone, but it will erase all data, so ensure you have backups.

[CaitDan]

I did try factory reset, and the phone is not carrier locked. I took it up with my carrier anyway, and they told me to try samsung support or contact the device seller. Backmarket, the site I bought it from, only allows me to return it for repair or refund. I cannot talk with the refurbisher. Additionally, nothing happens when I try the unlock option from the issue prompt. I can only dismiss the prompt notification.

[MarvinMod2]

It may be permanently sim locked. In settings, you can lock the sim, if that code is entered too many times wrong, it can trigger the mck. If the attempts continue, it can permanently lock the sim.
Another thing to try is to manually flash the device. Otherwise, you got **bleep** and should probably return the device. Whats the device model number?

[CaitDan]

It worked fine for a few days before. Sent calls and texts normally. I never set a lock on the sim. I've also tried switching sims and carriers, but the problem persisted. Would that still be the case? Also, what does flash the device mean?

[kimt123456]

I am currently waiting on my mck thru my carrier. I had to argue with multiple ppl and explain 900 times i needed the master control key code NOT the puk or network unlock code( which they repeatedly kept sending say that was all I needed and they had no other code to give me) I told them they have to create a case and submit it to get the code, agent came back and stated he was creating a case and they sent email saying it would be almost 2wks before they should get it and send it to me. Goodluck I'm waiting but make sure they at least have a case for you. ( from what I seen online that's how others got theirs)

[COOKIE1912]

I have been back and forth for 23 days now with MCK CODE..#@!÷. Filed FCC complaint. ATT said the problem would be fixed on 4 different occasions within 72 hrs. Still nothing. Bought and paid off phone through ATT before trying to switch carriers. Good luck. Have literally been on the phone with them for over 9 hours.

[ThyTek]

I'm going through the same issue... I think it's pretty ridiculous how your phone can be permanently locked if this and that... honestly it's just another "clever" way in their eyes to force us the consumers to buy newer versions of essentially the same model of phone like they can't create a more easy and effective way for users to continue using older products but no everything is about money always. All these bs adds I see on TV and the internet makes me laugh and reminds me of those late night commercials where the narrator speaks in nice and pleasant platitudes that hypnotically prepare you the viewer for the ending fast talking onslaught of symptoms that are usually deadly or life changing where you trade 10 points of health to gain 1 point if that.. i remember when covid was hitting and they had a chip shortage and then they came out with the new models of samsung galaxy and I checked the specs I kid you not everything in these older versions besides camera quality and some other small feature additions was a significant step up in terms of power and capability because they had more storage space and processing power in comparison to their respective line of models and most of the big carriers were pushing these deals in a way that we the people felt like we were getting lucky like the people who used to rush walmart and target stores during black Friday. They just wanted the older models with superior components and the beloved microchips they kept crying about being short on. Look at us now living with all these ridiculous roadblocks when it comes to keeping our devices from not even that long ago up to date. Current and a seamless experience but they blatantly created these stupid situations where people like us find ourselves in so frequently because we didn't read the fine print close enough.. sorry about the rant but it just grinds my gears how the people who really run and profit off of us the average consumer and have the audacity to pull stunts like this and then lie to our faces with all these nice sounding commercials and advertisements when they know **bleep** well its designed to screw us and make them a profit in the end and that just isn't American in any way, it's genius manipulation level but it's the same moves they've been pulling for years and everytime we all fall for it and even if you didn't fall it enough people in this world did and that was enough I guess to continue this cycle of perpetual distress