You may think you're secure with the multi-factor authentication you've set up, but did you know there's one method hackers can use to bypass it all? It's called SIM card hijacking, allowing attackers to access your data and funds without needing your password. Learn in this article how to protect yourself from this serious threat.
In the realm of infiltrators, there are various ways to circumvent all security measures set up to protect your social and financial accounts, including breaching two-factor authentication, once considered a robust barrier against hacking attempts. Intruders can resort to techniques like copying your SIM card, known as "SIM Cloning," enabling them to perform various malicious actions without much concern for legal consequences, as they understand the damages might be inflicted on the SIM card holder rather than them. Falling victim to such an attack could have a significant impact on your online data and accounts. Therefore, it's crucial to take preventive measures to avoid falling into the trap and recognize signs of SIM card hijacking on your phone.
Signs that the SIM card in your phone has been hacked
Have you received unexpected text messages or calls from numbers you don't know? Have you noticed any changes in your account settings? Having problems connecting to the mobile network? If yes to any of these questions, it could be a sign that your SIM card has been compromised.
SIM cloning
What is the process of SIM cloning?
A SIM card, or SIM card, is an identity card for telecommunications companies, as it is the primary means of benefiting from their services. Each SIM card is assigned a unique number, known as the "Unique identification number", and is stored on the servers of telecommunications companies.
The term "SIM cloning" refers to either having two identical cards on the same network at the service provider or blocking the original card and transferring the number related to it to another card by some act, often for fraudulent purposes such as unauthorized access to email accounts, social media or online banking, with the possibility of making unauthorized calls, sending text messages, or using the phone number to steal identity or phishing the victim.
To execute this operation, the scammer employs specialized tools designed to copy information from the original phone SIM card to a secondary phone's SIM card. This type of fraud requires physical access to the original SIM card, and the scammer must be in possession of the original SIM card. This can be achieved either through directly stealing the SIM card, which is an impractical solution, or by using social engineering methods, such as identity theft or convincing an employee at a telecommunications company to collaborate. Telecommunication companies legally offer a "SIM cloning" service to their customers to extract a "lost SIM replacement" instead of purchasing a new SIM card with a different number.
These methods are known as social engineering, where manipulation of victims is employed rather than relying on technology. It involves targeting individuals and persuading them to collaborate in achieving the desired goal, whether through attempting identity theft or convincing an employee to collude. Detecting this type of cheating remains challenging and heavily depends on the confession of the scammer or collaborator in the crime.
How to know if someone copied your SIM card
Although copying SIM cards is rare and can take a long time to be successful, making them more suitable for targeted incursions against specific individuals, it cannot be completely ruled out. Therefore, you should take appropriate precautionary measures and recognize the signs of its occurrence, including:
1. Loss of Call and SMS Capability:
If someone impersonates you and clones your SIM card, the telecommunications company will promptly block your original version, retaining the second version issued by the fraudster. As a result, your phone will display messages like "No Network Connection" or "Sim Not Allowed," indicating your inability to connect to the network, rendering you incapable of sending or receiving calls and text messages. If you encounter this scenario, it is advisable to contact your network provider or the SIM card-issuing company urgently to verify whether the SIM card has been swapped.
2. Unsolicited Verification Messages:
The second sign of a compromised SIM card, or at least an attempt to compromise it, occurs when you receive dual authentication messages or verification messages containing identity verification codes without having initiated the login requiring these codes. In some cases, the fraudster can clone the SIM card without blocking the original SIM card, resulting in you receiving the same messages as the imposter. If you notice this scenario, it is recommended to contact your network provider to discuss the issue and identify the source of the unwanted messages.
3. Unknown Activities on the SIM Card:
Some fraudsters attempt to maximize the benefits of cloning SIM cards. Therefore, once your SIM card is cloned, they may use your phone number for extortion or engage in criminal activities in your name. In the event of detecting suspicious activity, it is crucial to monitor your call log monthly to ensure verification, secure your communication, and prevent deception.
What to do if you notice any of these signs?
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take the following actions immediately:
- Contact your mobile service provider and report the incident. Your mobile service provider will be able to disable your SIM card and issue you a new one.
- Change the password for all your important accounts. It is important to use strong and different passwords for each account.
- Enable two-factor authentication on all your enabled accounts. Two-factor authentication can help protect your accounts even if your SIM card is compromised.
How do you protect your SIM card from being cloned?
Confirming the safeguarding of your identity and protecting your SIM card are crucial matters to avoid catastrophic consequences. SIM card cloning can lead to the destruction of your life, and it is an act that is difficult to deter when colluding with telecommunication companies or network providers. Even the companies themselves can fall victim to cyber attackers.
One of the most common fraud methods involves hackers impersonating the identity of an authorized employee requesting your personal data. Caution is necessary, and you should avoid disclosing your personal information, especially passwords, to anyone, even if they claim to be a genuine employee. Using additional protection measures, such as authentication apps like Google Authenticator, can be beneficial.
Tips to protect against SIM card hacking:
There are some things you can do to protect yourself from SIM card hacking, including:
- Be cautious of suspicious emails and text messages. Never click on links or enter personal information in emails or text messages from unknown sources.
- Install security software on your phone. Security software can protect your phone from malware that could be used to hack your SIM card.
- Change your account passwords regularly. It's important to use strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Enable two-factor authentication on all possible accounts. Two-factor authentication can help protect your accounts even if your SIM card is compromised.
In conclusion, being cautious and controlling the information you disclose are essential to avoid falling into the trap of fraud. Do not underestimate the adoption of advanced security measures and always exercise caution.
