Remote SIM replacement risks losing control over your financial accounts
Cyberpolice has provided recommendations on how to protect mobile numbers from unauthorized reissuance by criminals. Such actions can lead to unauthorized access to bank accounts and the opening of fraudulent loans. This is reported by the portal PromPolitInform, citing information from Cyber Police of Ukraine.
The agency emphasized that attackers utilize social engineering and phishing resources to extract personal data. One common method involves making a series of calls from various numbers, which are subsequently used as verification to request a SIM card reissuance from a mobile carrier.
To secure personal finances, citizens are advised to disable remote SIM card reissuance. This can be done via personal account settings or by contacting the support center. In this case, replacing the card will only be possible through a personal visit to an official operator store with a passport.
Methods to counter fraud
Experts recommend using a separate number for financial transactions that is not publicly available, posted on social networks, or used for messengers. It is also advisable to consider switching to a contract-based service plan, which significantly improves account security.
If you receive suspicious calls asking for a confirmation code or personal information, you must terminate the conversation immediately. If you have any doubts about the caller’s identity, you should personally call the official support line of your mobile operator.
Steps to take after a breach
If a SIM card has been reissued without the owner’s knowledge, it is urgent to notify the operator and initiate a temporary block on the number. The next step should be contacting your banking institution to freeze your cards and online banking access.
If scammers have gained access to social media accounts or email, you need to change your passwords immediately. It is important to notify friends and family about the hack to prevent the spread of fake requests for help or money collection on your behalf.
Reports of fraud must be filed with law enforcement authorities. A statement can be submitted online via the official Cyberpolice portal, which will help specialists start an investigation promptly.
Photo: Cyber Police of Ukraine
Read also: Fraudulent SIM card takeover: who is at risk and how to avoid credit fraud
