SIM Card Swap / Phone Number Hijacking
- What is SIM swap fraud and how does it lead to identity theft?
- What are the warning signs of a SIM swap attack?
- What can I do if I’ve been a victim of SIM swap fraud?
- Is my phone provider responsible for a SIM swap attack?
- Can SIM swap victims recover stolen funds?
- How do I protect myself from future SIM swap attacks?
What is SIM swap fraud and how does it lead to identity theft?
SIM swap fraud—also known as SIM hijacking—occurs when a scammer convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card that they control. Once they gain control of your number, they can intercept text messages and calls, including those used for two-factor authentication (2FA), giving them unauthorized access to your online… [Read More]
What are the warning signs of a SIM swap attack?
The most obvious sign of a SIM swap attack is the sudden loss of cellular service—your phone may stop receiving calls or texts even though your bill is paid and your phone is in working condition. This happens because the attacker has successfully transferred your number to their own SIM card, rendering yours inactive. Another… [Read More]
What can I do if I’ve been a victim of SIM swap fraud?
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… [Read More]
Is my phone provider responsible for a SIM swap attack?
In some cases, your mobile carrier may be held partially liable if they were negligent in protecting your account. If an attacker successfully executed a SIM swap by impersonating you, and the carrier failed to enforce proper security protocols (such as verifying identity with a PIN or password), they may be accountable under certain consumer… [Read More]
Can SIM swap victims recover stolen funds?
Yes, SIM swap victims may be able to recover stolen funds, but it depends on how the fraud occurred and which financial institutions were involved. If a hacker accessed your bank account, crypto wallet, or trading account using your stolen number, you should report the incident immediately and file a fraud claim with the financial… [Read More]
How do I protect myself from future SIM swap attacks?
To prevent future SIM swap fraud, take multiple layers of security precautions. Start by contacting your mobile carrier and requesting that they add a PIN, password, or biometric verification to your account. Some carriers also offer enhanced security or “port freeze” features that require in-person verification to transfer your number. Avoid using your phone number… [Read More]