How to Protect Yourself from SIM Swap Attacks

SIM swapping lets criminals take over your phone number. Learn how to prevent it.

In this guide (4 steps):

1.What is a SIM swap attack?
2.Set up a PIN with your phone company
3.Switch to an authenticator app for two-factor codes
4.Watch for warning signs and know what to do

What is a SIM swap attack?

~27s

A SIM swap happens when a criminal convinces your phone company to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card they control. Once they have your phone number, they can: - Receive your text messages — including bank security codes - Reset passwords by intercepting verification texts - Access your email, bank, and social media - Lock you out of your own accounts This is a serious form of identity theft. The good news is there are simple steps to protect yourself.

Set up a PIN with your phone company

~39s

The most important protection is adding extra security to your phone account. 1. **Call your phone company** or visit a store: - AT&T: Call 611 — set up a "Passcode" - Verizon: Call 611 — set up an "Account PIN" - T-Mobile: Call 611 — enable "Account Takeover Protection" - Other carriers: Call customer service and ask to add a PIN 2. **Choose a strong PIN** — Do not use your birthday or "1234" 3. **Ask about SIM swap protection** — Tell the representative you want extra protection against unauthorized SIM changes After this, anyone trying to change your SIM must provide the PIN first.

Quick Tip

Write down your account PIN and store it somewhere safe — NOT on your phone.

Switch to an authenticator app for two-factor codes

~32s

If criminals get your phone number through a SIM swap, they can intercept text message codes. Using an authenticator app prevents this. 1. Download an authenticator app: - **Google Authenticator** (free) - **Microsoft Authenticator** (free) - **Authy** (free) 2. Go to the security settings of your important accounts (bank, email, social media) 3. Look for "Two-Factor Authentication" or "2-Step Verification" 4. Instead of "Text Message," choose "Authenticator App" 5. Scan the QR code with your authenticator app 6. The app generates new 6-digit codes every 30 seconds Prioritize switching: email, banking, and any financial accounts.

Watch for warning signs and know what to do

~36s

If a SIM swap happens, you may notice: - Your phone suddenly says "No Service" or "SOS Only" - You stop receiving calls and text messages - You get alerts about password changes you did not make If you think you are a victim: 1. **Call your phone company immediately** from a different phone — ask them to reverse the SIM change 2. **Change your passwords** on all important accounts 3. **Check your bank accounts** for unauthorized transactions 4. **File a report** at IdentityTheft.gov 5. **File a police report**

Warning

If your phone suddenly shows "No Service" and you did not change anything, act immediately. Call your phone company from another phone.

You Did It!

You've completed: How to Protect Yourself from SIM Swap Attacks

Need more help? Get Expert Help from a TekSure Tech

Rate this guide

How helpful was this guide?

sim swap

phone

security

identity theft

two-factor