SIM Swap Scams: How They Work and How to Lock Your Number

A SIM swap scam happens when a criminal convinces your carrier to move your number to a SIM they control. Once they have it, SMS codes and account recovery messages go to them, not you.

Three takeaways

• Add a carrier port-out PIN or number lock, so a stranger cannot transfer your number.
• Move important accounts from SMS codes to an authenticator app or passkey.
• If your phone suddenly loses signal for no reason, call your carrier from another device right away.

The full guide covers how the attack works, warning signs and recovery steps: SIM swap scams explained.

Related reading:

• Two-factor authentication: why SMS codes are the weakest option
• Password managers explained

Originally published at Guru X Blog.

This article was written with the help of AI and fact-checked and edited before publishing.