SIM swapping is a technique increasingly used by cybercriminals to fraudulently duplicate a cell phone’s SIM card. This method allows attackers to block a victim’s phone service and take control of online accounts, such as bank accounts, using verification SMS sent to the compromised cell phone number.
How cybercriminals impersonate you
According to , criminals can obtain your personal data in several ways to impersonate you with the telephone operator. Among the most common techniques are social engineering attacks, where the victim is tricked into sharing confidential information, such as an identity card number or contract number, through fraudulent calls, text messages or emails.
Furthermore, there is always a risk of downloading malware or installing viruses when opening suspicious documents or links received via email or messages. These actions may expose your information to malicious third parties.
How to identify and prevent a SIM swapping attack
If your cell phone loses coverage for no apparent reason, this could be a sign that your SIM card has been duplicated. In this case, you must immediately contact your operator. If they confirm the issuance of a duplicate of your SIM without your knowledge, take the following steps:
- Change your bank account access credentials.
- Contact your bank to inform them of the situation and prevent unauthorized access.
Prevention is essential to avoid this type of attack. Some important practices include:
- Never share personal or banking information through links included in suspicious emails or SMS, or in unsolicited phone calls.
- Protect your social networks by controlling who can view your publications and configuring the privacy settings of your profiles.
- Avoid entering confidential information while connected to public Wi-Fi networks, which may be less secure.
These simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of SIM swap fraud. Be cautious and stay informed to protect your personal and financial data.
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