SIM swap scam
Quick answer
A scammer takes control of your phone number by tricking or bribing a carrier into moving it to their SIM, so they receive your calls and one-time codes.
- Contact your mobile carrier immediately to reverse any unauthorised swap, then secure your email, bank, and wallet from a trusted device.
What it is
A scammer takes control of your phone number by tricking or bribing a carrier into moving it to their SIM, so they receive your calls and one-time codes.
How it works
Using personal details gathered from phishing or leaks, the scammer requests a SIM swap or port. Your phone loses signal, and the attacker uses incoming OTP codes to reset passwords and access your bank, email, or wallet.
Red flags to watch for
- Your phone suddenly loses signal or shows 'no service' for no reason
- Unexpected 'SIM activated' or porting messages
- Being unable to log in to accounts that use SMS codes
- Alerts about password or contact-detail changes you did not make
Example
Your phone loses signal, and soon you cannot log in to your bank because codes are going elsewhere. This is risky because your number may have been moved to another SIM to intercept your codes.
What not to do
- Do not ignore a sudden, unexplained loss of mobile signal
- Do not rely only on SMS codes for important accounts
- Do not share OTPs or personal details to 'restore' service
The safe next step
Contact your mobile carrier immediately to reverse any unauthorised swap, then secure your email, bank, and wallet from a trusted device.
Often seen on: SMS, Phone, Email.
Commonly targets: Anyone who uses SMS codes for banking or accounts.
How to verify safely
- Do not use links, phone numbers, QR codes, or email addresses from the suspicious message.
- Open the official app or website yourself - type the address manually.
- Call a contact you have saved, or the number printed on your bank card.
- If you are threatened or in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police.
How to report it
Report to your mobile carrier, your bank if accounts were affected, and your national cybercrime authority.
Find official links for your country in the scam reporting directory.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the first sign of a SIM swap?
An unexpected, lasting loss of mobile signal - especially alongside account alerts - can mean your number was moved to another SIM.
How do I protect myself from SIM swaps?
Where possible, replace SMS codes with an authenticator app, and add a port-out PIN or lock with your carrier.
What should I do right away?
Call your carrier from another phone to reverse the swap, then change passwords and secure key accounts from a trusted device.