Cybersecurity glossary
What is SIM swapping?
Also known as: SIM swap, port-out scam
Definition
SIM swapping is fraud where a criminal convinces or bribes a mobile carrier to move a victim’s phone number to a SIM the criminal controls, to receive their calls and SMS codes.
Why it matters
It is used to take over accounts protected only by SMS codes. Add a carrier account PIN or port-out lock, and move important accounts to app-based MFA or passkeys.
Common questions about SIM swapping
Sources
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