You may have heard about a new SIM swapping scam that allows scammers to access bank accounts and personal info. We’re going to tell you how it labours and how you are able to shunned become victims to it.

How does the SIM swapping scam exertion?

It involves scammers moving your phone number to a brand-new invention by contacting your cell phone provider, pretending to be you, and saying that the phone has been lost or stolen.

The scammer asks for your phone number to be transferred to a brand-new SIM card on a brand-new manoeuvre that they already have( this can be done remotely, without the phone or SIM card physically present ).

After the scammer has moved your phone number to their phone, they start downloading apps for social media, email, online banking, and exploit two-factor authentication by hitting the “forgot password” button. This tells the scammer reset your passwords by using the verification code that is sent to your telephone number( which they now have ).

So, at this spot, your phone number has been forwarded to a brand-new design. You may notice something is wrong when your phone cannot place calls, as your service has been unplugged and your numeral is no longer connected to your phone.

How to avoid the SIM swapping scam

Keep your personal information, such as your birthday, off social media. This info can be used by scammers to answer security questions from your cell phone provider. Don’t fall victim to phishing emails that ask you to update account information or to confirm a password Application an offline password director Contact your cell phone provider and ask about additional insurance gradations that can be added to your accounting If you decides that you don’t want to use two-factor authentication, consider removing your phone number from those apps or communicate with them about alternative security measures If your phone service is abruptly detached, contact your provider immediately

Speaking with your cell phone provider is an essential first step to be informed about how your account is protected and what security measures are currently in place. You may be able to add an additional layer of protection by changing your security question to something that simply you would know.

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