SIM swap

A SIM swap is a fraud where a criminal gets a new SIM issued with your number so they can receive your OTPs, calls and account reset codes.

SIM swap: A SIM swap is when a criminal gets your mobile number moved to a SIM card that they control, usually by tricking the operator or you. Your phone then loses signal and the criminal receives your calls, SMS and OTPs, including bank and account reset codes.

The usual sign is that your phone suddenly shows no network for no reason, while you did nothing. Scammers may first collect your details through phishing, then use a fake ID or a fake call that asks you to press a key or share a code. In some cases they trick you into approving a duplicate SIM yourself. Banks usually warn about this kind of fraud, so read their notices and keep your registered number current.

If your signal drops unexpectedly, use another phone to contact your operator at once through its official channel, and inform your bank using the number printed on your card. Protect accounts with an authenticator app rather than SMS codes, and never share SIM details or confirm a SIM request you did not start. Act quickly, as the criminals often try to drain accounts within hours.

Tips

• If your phone loses network suddenly and for no clear reason, contact your operator from another phone at once.
• Use an authenticator app for important accounts instead of SMS codes where you can.
• Turn on Safeavio's SIM-change alert to be told if the SIM in your phone is changed.

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