How SIM swaps work

A SIM swap moves your phone number onto a SIM card the attacker controls, usually by impersonating you to your mobile provider.

Once complete, the attacker receives your calls and SMS codes, which can unlock banking and other accounts that rely on SMS verification.

Warning signs include sudden loss of signal and an unexpected SIM-swap confirmation SMS.

Moving sensitive accounts to an authenticator app instead of SMS-based codes significantly reduces this risk.