Everybody is worried about losing access to e-mail, social network or bank accounts from the mobile device. It’s normal to think that the most common threat is a virus or hacking attempt, but there’s a method called SIM Swapping that not every user is aware of. A possible solution to SIM Swapping is using an eSIM, and this article explores the different possibilities.
The eSIM technology is a good alternative to keep your device safe from SIM Swapping attempts. In order to use this technology properly, you need to understand the main features of it.
What is SIM Swapping and why does eSIM work against it?
SIM Swapping is a hacker technique that copies your SIM data. Hackers deceive your telephone operator and transfer the number to the hacker’s SIM. Once they have your SIM cloned, they receive your messages, calls, passwords as well as control over your accounts if you don’t have additional security measures. For that reason, eSIM seems like an alternative to avoid SIM Swapping as you don’t require a real SIM card.
Security improvements with eSIM
The eSIM technology doesn’t use a physical card. It’s an integrated chip on the device. It’s a key difference with the traditional SIM card. The main features of the eSIM security enhancements include:
Removal of physical components. The SIM Swapping attack is a physical duplication of the SIM and the eSIM is impossible to clone. There’s nothing to steal or replace physically. The full transference process is digital ant it eliminates the risk of scammers asking for a new SIM card in a store.
More secure activation procedure. In order to activate an eSIM you require a more protected verification. It normally involves using a QR code that you receive through a secure channel like your e-mail account. The process adds a new layer of security as you don’t require operator identification only.
Confirmation requirements. The eSIM technology is linked with your phone. In order to transfer an eSIM to another device, you need physical access to the mobile phone where the eSIM is located in order to confirm the change. And hackers don’t tend to have access to your mobile phone while doing SIM Swapping.
Is the eSIM the final solution against SIM Swapping?
Although the eSIM techonology is a good alternative to avoid SIM Swapping, it’s not a final solution. The new approach reduces risk considerably but it doesn’t eliminate it definitely. As long as there’s a human factor involved in telephone operator processes, the risk of a scam is still present.
eSIM security usually depends on the verification processes of your telephone operator. If the company allows for eSIM transfer using a simple telephone call, the risk will be still present. It still removes certain threats but there’s no 0% risk. That’s why you should keep your accounts protected by using different passwords and access keys. If you use a eSIM card for your telephone number, you can reduce the risk of SIM Swapping attacks very easily.
Do you have any questions or problems related to the topic of the article? We want to help you.
Leave a comment with your problem or question. We read and respond to all comments, although sometimes it may take a while due to the volume we receive. Additionally, if your question inspires the writing of an article, we will notify you by email when we publish it.
*We moderate comments to avoid spam.
Thank you for enrich our community with your participation!