SIM Swap Fraud Explained: How Scammers Hijack Your Mobile Number? Tips To Protect Yourself

The rise of cybercrime is making all digital users be attentive to any kind of potential scam that can leave you empty-handed! But no matter how prepared you are, there is always something new that can shock you. Now, there is another (although not new), but worrying scam that is worth attention – Swap SIM Fraud. 

If you suddenly lose network signal while your friend’s phone is working fine, it might not be a regular network issue. Sometimes, it’s something more serious – a case of SIM Swap Fraud. Yes, that’s when fraudsters silently hijack your mobile number to access your bank accounts, OTPs, and even personal data.

In simple words, SIM Swap Fraud is when a scammer tricks your mobile operator into issuing a new SIM card for your number without your knowledge. Once they get that new SIM activated, your old SIM stops working. And boom, they start receiving all your OTPs, bank alerts, and login codes.

The fraudsters usually gather your personal information first – your name, phone number, address, even PAN or Aadhaar details – through phishing, fake calls, or leaked data online. Then, pretending to be you, they convince the telecom operator to issue a duplicate SIM.

How To Know If You’ve Been Affected

If your SIM suddenly stops working, here are the early red flags you shouldn’t ignore:

• Your phone suddenly shows “No Service” or “Emergency Calls Only.”
• You stop receiving texts or calls for a long time.
• You get messages about SIM card activation or mobile services you didn’t request.
• Unusual transactions or login alerts from your bank.
• If you notice any of these signs – contact your service provider immediately.

What You Should Do

If you are a victim:

• Call your operator’s helpline immediately to report a possible SIM swap and block the new SIM.
• Inform your bank to freeze online transactions temporarily.
• Reset all your passwords (especially email and banking).
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) using an authenticator app, not SMS.
• Avoid sharing OTPs or personal details over calls or messages, no matter how “official” it sounds.

It is important to be vigilant, too. As you should never share your personal or banking info on unknown links or calls, and you must regularly check your mobile and bank statements for suspicious activity to avoid falling victim to it.