SIM swap scam
SIM swapping is a scam when a perpetrator activates a victim’s SIM card on another device to hijack their messages, calls, and mobile data. SIM swapping is also very dangerous if you have multi-factor authentication tied to your phone number. Hackers can use this to bypass security and hack into your accounts.
SIM swapping simplified
You can call your mobile service provider any time and say you’ve lost your SIM card. Criminals can do the same thing in your name. All they have to do is know the relevant personal information about you to convince your service provider they’re you.
Once your SIM card is activated on a different device, you’ll lose your data, text messages, and phone calls. The perpetrators can then use your phone number to commit further crimes like extracting money from your relatives or friends. They can also open new cellular accounts or buy new phones in your name. SIM swapping is very dangerous if you have multi-factor authentication tied to your phone number. Hackers can use this to bypass security and hack into your accounts.
Tips to prevent SIM swapping
Handle data responsibly
Limit the amount of personal data you share online (like social media, etc.) and don’t give your personal data to random people that ask.
Secure your account
Set up additional security measures on your mobile account like security questions and verification messages.
Get MFA
Get off text message verification and switch to an authentication app or physical security device, e.g., U2F, Google Authenticator, and others.
Sim swapping stats
According to the FBI Internet Crime Reports, here's how devastating sim swapping was in 2022: