Friday 26 April 2024

Hackers Can Steal Your Number: Here's How to Fight Back (SIM Swap Scam)

Sim swapping, also known as SIM hijacking or SIM splitting, is a sneaky way hackers can steal your money and personal information. Here's how it works:

The Scam:

Intel Gathering: Sim swappers first collect your personal details like address, birthdate, and possibly even info about your phone plan. They might use phishing emails, buy information on the dark web, or even trick you into revealing it unwittingly.
Impersonating You: With your personal details, the hacker calls your mobile carrier pretending to be you. They claim to have lost their phone (which is actually your phone number) and request a SIM swap to a new SIM card (which they control).
Taking Over Your Number: If the social engineering is successful, the carrier unwittingly transfers your number to the hacker's SIM card. Now all calls, texts, and even two-factor authentication codes sent to your number will go to the hacker's device.
Draining Accounts: With control over your phone number, hackers can bypass two-factor authentication and access your bank accounts, email, and other online accounts. They can then drain your funds, make unauthorised purchases, or even impersonate you to scam others.

Protecting Yourself:

Be Wary of Unsolicited Calls & Emails: Don't reveal personal details over calls or emails from unknown sources. Contact your mobile carrier directly if you receive suspicious requests about your account.
Enable PIN/Password on SIM: Many carriers allow adding a PIN or password to your SIM card. This extra layer of security makes it harder for someone to impersonate you and get a SIM swap.
Use Security Apps: Consider using security apps that offer two-factor authentication beyond SMS verification. Options like authenticator apps on your phone or hardware security keys can provide stronger protection.
Be Mindful of Social Media: Avoid sharing excessive personal details on social media, as this can be a goldmine for information for hackers.

By following these steps, you can make it much harder for SIM swappers to steal your identity and your money. If you suspect you've been a victim of a SIM swap, contact your mobile carrier immediately and report the incident.