SIM swap fraud is when scammers take control of a phone number by switching the service from the customer’s SIM to another SIM in their possession. Its then possible to access your online accounts and personal data.
SIM-swapping fraud doubled nationally in both 2023 and 2024, with nearly 3,000 incidents reported in 2024, according to Report Fraud.
What are the signs?
- You are no longer receiving calls or texts
- Your bill/call logs show calls and texts to
numbers you don’t recognize - Your location appears elsewhere
- You’ve been locked out of accounts you
previously had access to
Protecting yourself
- Avoid sharing your mobile number online unnecessarily
- Use app-based authentication (e.g., Google Authenticator) instead of SMS codes
- Set up a SIM PIN or passcode through your mobile provider
What to do in a crisis:
- Contact your mobile provider immediately: They can confirm if a swap occurred, deactivate the fraudulent SIM card, and help you regain control of your phone number.
- Notify your banks and financial institutions (e.g., credit card companies): Request that they freeze your accounts to block any unauthorized transactions and monitor for suspicious activity. You may be able to do this from within an app!
- Secure your online accounts: Change your passwords to new, strong, and unique ones and disable SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) temporarily and switch to more secure methods like app-based authenticators (e.g., Google Authenticator) or physical security keys.
- Report the fraud: Report the crime to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040. Ensure you keep a record in case of future disputes.
- Monitor your accounts: Keep a close watch on your bank statements and online accounts for any transactions you don’t recognize. If you find any, report them immediately as unauthorized charges
