📵 What is a SIM Swap Attack?
A SIM swap attack is when a fraudster tricks your mobile network into giving them control of your phone number. If they succeed, they can receive your text messages and calls — including any security codes sent by text. This can let them break into your accounts.
📱 Why Does This Happen?
Every mobile number is linked to a SIM card (the small chip in your phone). If you lose your phone, your network can move your number to a new SIM — so you can keep using it.
Fraudsters take advantage of this. They contact your network pretending to be you, and ask to move your number to their SIM card instead. Once that happens, your phone stops working — and they start receiving your texts and calls.
😬 Why It’s a Problem
Many accounts - including banks, email, and social media - use text messages to send login codes. If someone else has control of your number, they can:
Receive your login codes
Reset your passwords
Access your accounts
🔐 How to Stay Safe
The best way to protect yourself is to stop using text messages for login codes.
Here’s what to do:
Use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. These apps give you a code that changes every 30 seconds — and they don’t rely on your mobile number.
Even better — if your service allows it, use a hardware security key. It’s like a digital key you plug into your device.
Once you’ve switched, turn off SMS codes wherever you can.
