What Is SIM Swapping Fraud And How To Prevent It?

SIM card illustration (photo: Kaspersky)

JAKARTA - Cybercrime has many types. The most common crime is phishing, where the perpetrators usually deceive the victim through fake links for profit.

However, there are also other scams that need to be considered, namely SIM swapping. This attack poses a serious danger to businesses because it allows perpetrators to gain access to company communications, accounts, and sensitive information such as financial data.

What is SIM swapping?

According to Kaspersky, SIM swapping is an attack method used to hijack cell phone numbers and transfer them to the attacker's device.

Usually the attackers are most interested in text messages, especially messages containing one-time verification codes. So, after getting access, they can log into an account that is connected to a phone number and confirm transactions using the tapped code.

As for the SIM exchange process itself, Kaspersky said there were various approaches made by cybercriminals. In some cases, they use accomplice services that work for cellular operators.

"For organizations that are targeted, SIM swapping attacks can have a bad impact. This method can also be applied to more sophisticated attacks." said the global cybersecurity company.

Prevent SIM Swapping