If you’re the victim of SIM swap fraud, your first step is to contact your mobile provider and request that they lock or recover your account immediately. Ask for your number to be reactivated on your original device and inquire about the steps taken that led to the unauthorized SIM swap. Request a detailed record of any changes made to your account.
Next, update the security credentials on all accounts linked to your phone number, especially your email, bank, and crypto wallets. Change passwords, enable app-based two-factor authentication, and remove your phone number from authentication where possible. These steps will help prevent further unauthorized access.
Report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) through IdentityTheft.gov and consider filing a police report for documentation. You should also contact the major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit file. If the attack led to financial loss or reputational damage, legal assistance may be necessary to dispute unauthorized transactions or pursue claims.
Finally, to prevent future SIM swaps, ask your mobile provider to add a unique passcode to your account, enable carrier-level security features, and avoid using your phone number as the primary method for account recovery. Awareness and quick action are key to minimizing the impact of SIM card fraud.
