What is the primary use of personal identification numbers (PINs)?

Personal identification numbers (PINs) are primarily used to authenticate users in transactions. They serve as a form of security that verifies a user's identity when accessing a system or conducting transactions, especially in contexts like banking or online services. The use of a PIN adds a layer of security in addition to usernames or account numbers, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access sensitive information or perform actions associated with an account.

While there are other uses for security measures, such as securing hardware devices or managing software applications, the core function of a PIN is to confirm the identity of a user during a transaction. This makes it crucial for protecting financial data and personal information in various applications.