What is Sim swapping? When you can’t find your smartphone for a minute or two, this uncomfortable feeling does not let you breathe. Not having your phone insight makes you feel that all your data is vulnerable.
What if I tell you that your data is still as vulnerable as the above-explained situation with your phone in your hands? Scary enough? I know it is hair-raising, but unfortunately, it is true. Sim swapping is the technique cybercriminals use to access your phone without you even knowing about it.
How is it done?
Sim swapping is also known as simjacking or SIM splitting. In simjacking, the cyber attacker aims to take hold of the two-step verification. Most websites require it with a login.
The Sim is hijacked to get away with the two-step verification, which opens doors to your various accounts, e.g. bank account.
In this regard, the cybercriminal gets your Sim’s phone number. He then illegally logs into your online accounts, e.g., bank account. Now the bank account requires verification after that unusual login. For that verification, they will call you on your SIM mobile number or send a message.
The scammer will pass this authentication with excellence as he controls your SIM mobile number. So, to summarize the situation, even with your phone in your safe hands, your data is not safe anywhere.
Consequences of sim swapping
Sim swapping is something nobody wants to experience, even in their wildest dreams. The consequences can be detrimental if someone has access to your phone via sim swapping. The cyber attacker involved in Sim swapping may target your social media platforms. It includes such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, etc.
In this case, the consequences are less damaging than the former. But in this case, your data is at risk.
How Will You Know If You’re a Victim of SIM-Swapping?
- Sim swapping does not go unnoticed by an intelligent person. If you get bothered by even the most minor change, you can detect Sim swapping early on. Here are a few ways to spot it.
- Keep your eyes open for notifications. If the attacker uses the two-step verification in his favour, you will receive a notice about unusual activity. Many applications, such as Gmail, inform you of unusual login activity.
Another relatively quick way is to look for signals. When a cybercriminal takes over your SIM mobile number, you lose connection. There are no signals, and you can not send messages or make a call. This situation is not always because of sim swapping, but it is one of the leading causes.
Another way of detecting sim swapping is to look for any unusual changes on your social media platforms, bank accounts, etc.
Conclusion
While it is difficult to get rid of sim swapping, there are a few things you can do if you get into this situation. After you see a change in your Sim, contact the service provider. Also, try to shift your two-step authentication to a reliable platform, such as email, instead of a mobile number.
