TL;DR: SIM swapping is when a scammer convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM card they control, letting them intercept your calls and SMS-based verification codes. Set up a PIN or passcode on your mobile account with your carrier, use an authenticator app instead of SMS for two-factor authentication where possible, and contact your carrier immediately if you lose signal unexpectedly.
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SIM swapping is when a scammer convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM card they control, letting them intercept your calls and SMS-based verification codes.
How SIM Swapping Works
The scammer gathers enough personal information about you (often from a data breach or social engineering) to convince your carrier's support team they are you, then requests your number be moved to a new SIM. Once successful, they can receive your two-factor authentication codes and take over bank, email, and crypto accounts.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Your phone suddenly loses signal or shows "No Service" unexpectedly, you receive an alert about a SIM change you didn't request, or you're locked out of accounts that use SMS verification.
How to Protect Yourself
Set up a PIN or passcode on your mobile account with your carrier, use an authenticator app instead of SMS for two-factor authentication where possible, and contact your carrier immediately if you lose signal unexpectedly.
If this looks similar to something else you've seen, it's worth reading What Is Skimming vs Shimming? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
This pattern shows up elsewhere too — see What Is Smishing? How It Works and How to Protect Yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SIM Swapping?
SIM swapping is when a scammer convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM card they control, letting them intercept your calls and SMS-based verification codes.
How does SIM Swapping typically work?
The scammer gathers enough personal information about you (often from a data breach or social engineering) to convince your carrier's support team they are you, then requests your number be moved to a new SIM. Once successful, they can receive your two-factor authentication codes and take over bank, email, and crypto accounts.
What are the warning signs of SIM Swapping?
Your phone suddenly loses signal or shows "No Service" unexpectedly, you receive an alert about a SIM change you didn't request, or you're locked out of accounts that use SMS verification.
How can I protect myself from SIM Swapping?
Set up a PIN or passcode on your mobile account with your carrier, use an authenticator app instead of SMS for two-factor authentication where possible, and contact your carrier immediately if you lose signal unexpectedly.
What should I do if I think I’ve encountered SIM Swapping?
Stop responding immediately, do not click any links or share information, and report it to the appropriate authority. If money or personal information was already shared, act quickly to secure your accounts and report the incident.