Subscriber identity module (SIM) swapping scams involve criminals stealing a target’s phone number to access their personal data and financial information. Recently, scammers have increasingly started using eSIM cards to carry out their activities. Many smartphone manufacturers have started using eSIMs as they eliminate the need for a physical SIM card slot on mobile devices.
Typically, SIM swappers use social engineering or contact with an individual employed by a telecommunications service to steal a user’s phone number. However, with the rise of eSIMs, scammers have begun to implement the technology into their criminal activity.
Scammers can break into a user’s mobile data simply by generating a QR code which, once scanned, will jack said user’s phone number. Scammers will then use the number to bypass many common security practices, essentially taking over a user’s mobile identity. Additionally, the user who actually owns the SIM may be deactivated and be unable to combat the scammer.
eBanking and cryptocurrency are two of the most common things that SIM swappers look for when targeting individuals with this scam.
