SIM Swap Scams: How to Avoid Becoming a Victim

In today’s digital age, sim swap scams are becoming an increasingly common and sophisticated threat. Anyone with a mobile phone is at risk. According to the UK’s Action Fraud, reports of sim swap scams have doubled year-on-year. But what exactly is a sim swap scam, and how can you protect yourself? Read on to find out.

What are SIM swap scams?

A sim swap scam happens when criminals gain access to your mobile number by tricking your mobile provider into transferring it to a new SIM card. This allows them to intercept your calls and messages, including the one-time passcodes used to verify your identity for online accounts.

Once they have control of your number, scammers can gain access to sensitive information, including bank accounts, social media profiles, and email. This type of fraud can lead to financial losses, identity theft, and significant emotional distress.

How do SIM scams work: The process explained

Fraudsters typically follow a calculated strategy:

1. Information gathering: They collect personal details through:
   • Social media profiles
   • Previous data breaches
   • Phishing messages and calls
2. Network manipulation: Criminals contact your mobile provider, posing as you, to:
   • Request a new SIM card
   • Transfer your number to their device
   • Bypass security checks using stolen personal information
3. Account takeover: Once they control your number, they attempt to access:
   • Banking accounts
   • Email systems
   • Social media profiles

Real-life examples of SIM swap fraud in the UK

Ellie’s experience illustrates the devastating potential of these scams. In September, she became a victim when scammers:

• Ordered a new eSIM without her knowledge.
• Manipulated her email account.
• Made unauthorised purchases totalling £2,200 across Klarna and PayPal.
• Exploited her compromised email to bypass security measures.

In another notable case, a 56-year-old from Manchester fell victim to a sim swap scam in 2023. The event unfolded like this:

• Her mobile phone had suddenly lost signal.
• Later she discovered that £5,000 had been transferred out of her bank account.
• She learnt that fraudsters had gained access to her mobile number and intercepted the security codes sent by her bank.

Such stories highlight the importance of understanding how sim swap scams work and taking steps to protect yourself.

How to know if you were sim-swapped

Detecting a sim swap early can minimise the damage. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Loss of signal: Your phone suddenly loses network connectivity without explanation.
• Unusual account activity: Notifications of account changes or logins from unknown locations.
• Blocked calls or texts: You cannot make calls or send messages.
• Unauthorised transactions: Unexpected charges or withdrawals from your accounts.

If you experience any of these signs, contact your mobile provider immediately to check for unauthorised changes to your account.

Can you protect yourself from sim-swapping?

Yes, you can. Taking these proactive steps will help safeguard your mobile number:

1. Secure your mobile account
   • Request a unique PIN or password for account changes.
   • Enable additional security features from your network provider.
2. Implement strong multi-factor authentication (MFA)
   • Prioritise passkeys supported by Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Samsung.
   • Avoid SMS-based authentication when possible.
   • Use an authenticator app instead of SMS for 2FA where possible.
3. Manage your online presence
   • Restrict social media profile visibility.
   • Avoid sharing sensitive personal details publicly.
   • Remove easily guessable security question answers.
4. Stay alert and responsive
   • Immediately contact your network if you:
     • Receive unexpected SIM porting messages.
     • Unexpectedly lose phone service.
     • Notice suspicious account activity.
5. Proactive financial protection
   • Notify banks of potential compromise.
   • Monitor account statements closely.
   • Change passwords regularly.
   • Disable SMS authentication methods where possible.
   • Avoid sharing sensitive details like your mother’s maiden name on social media.

What happens when you request a SIM swap?

When you legitimately request a SIM swap, your mobile provider will deactivate your current SIM and activate a new one with the same number. Scammers exploit this process by impersonating you and providing false identification. To avoid this, always request a PIN or security code verification when making changes to your account.

Emerging trends in SIM swap fraud

eSIM developments

Contrary to initial concerns, eSIMs might actually provide additional security. They cannot be physically stolen and require more sophisticated manipulation to compromise.

Reporting & awareness

Action Fraud suggests the surge in reports might stem from increased public awareness rather than a proportional increase in actual fraud attempts. A comprehensive report is expected to provide more nuanced insights.

How to report a SIM swap scam

Reporting a sim swap scam is crucial in preventing further harm and protecting others. Here’s how to take action:

1. Contact your mobile provider immediately:
   • Inform them about the suspicious activity and request a block on your number.
   • Ask for a detailed log of recent changes to your account.
2. Report the scam to Action Fraud:
   • Visit actionfraud.police.uk to file a report.
   • Alternatively, call Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040 to report the scam over the phone.
3. Notify your bank or financial institutions:
   • Inform them about the potential compromise of your accounts.
   • Request extra security measures, such as account monitoring and temporary freezes.
4. Change your passwords and secure your accounts:
   • Update passwords for all accounts linked to your mobile number.
   • Enable two-factor authentication using an authenticator app.
5. Spread awareness:
   • Share your experience with friends and family to help them stay vigilant.

By reporting these scams promptly, you not only protect yourself but also assist authorities in identifying and stopping scammers.

FAQ: Common questions about SIM swap scams