Almost every adult in America owns a cell phone. (I own two!) That also means almost everyone is a potential target for one of the fastest growing scams today, SIM card swapping.
A SIM card in your phone can be a unique electronic record, a tiny little card, or your phone may allow both options.
A SIM swap scam happens when a criminal tricks your phone company into transferring your phone number to a SIM card they control. Once they have your number, they can receive your text messages and calls, including the verification codes you use for online banking, email, and social media. In just minutes, they can lock you out of your accounts and steal your money.
How it happens:
A scammer contacts your mobile carrier pretending to be you. They claim your phone was lost or damaged and ask to activate a replacement SIM. If the carrier employee believes them, your number instantly moves to the criminal’s phone. From there, they can reset passwords, intercept codes, and take over your accounts.
What phone companies are doing:
- Verizon lets customers set up Number Lock and Transfer PINs so your number cannot be ported without approval.
- T-Mobile requires account PINs and offers Account Takeover Protection to stop unauthorized transfers.
- AT&T is improving fraud detection tools and working with law enforcement to identify SIM swap crimes.
- Smaller carriers such as Boost, TracFone, and Consumer Cellular have added PIN systems and text alerts before transfers occur.
How to protect yourself:
- Enable SIM swap or SIM lock protection in your phone carrier’s app or account settings. Search for “SIM Lock” or “Swap Protection.” It usually takes less than a minute.
- Use strong PINs and passwords. Every mobile account should have a PIN that only you know.
- Be cautious with texts and calls. Never reply to messages that ask for verification codes or personal information.
- Use an authentication app instead of text messages for two-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Consider switching to an eSIM-only device. These digital SIMs are more secure and harder to replace.
I tried to set my SIM PIN on my iPhone, but I think I already have one set with Verizon so I didn’t want to risk locking out my phone. Next time I’m near a Verizon store, I’ll ask them to help me.
A stolen phone number can lead to stolen money, stolen identity, and months of stress. Take five minutes today to lock down your mobile account. It is one of the easiest ways to keep scammers from taking over your life.