What is a SIM Swap fraud?

Unlike many cyberattacks, a SIM swap attack usually doesn’t involve breaking into networks or deploying malware. Instead, it preys on human trust and weak security protocols within telecom companies. Attackers pose as legitimate customers, persuading carrier employees to hand over control of their target’s phone number.

Before they ever contact a carrier, fraudsters usually collect personal details about their intended victim. They may dig through old data breaches, launch phishing campaigns, or comb through public social media profiles. Once they have enough information, they call the mobile provider, impersonate the account holder, and convince the representative to transfer the number.

This tactic, known as social engineering, lies at the core of SIM swapping. It doesn’t require hacking tools or code. What it does require is confidence, credibility, and enough personal data to seem convincing.

Under normal circumstances, when you switch phones or carriers, you request what’s called a SIM port-out. This process moves your number to a new SIM card. Criminals exploit this exact procedure. Since many providers still rely on weak or inconsistent identity checks, it’s often surprisingly easy for attackers to submit a fake request that gets approved.

Once the transfer is complete, the victim’s SIM card immediately stops working. From that moment, the attacker begins receiving every call and text, including the 2FA codes that were supposed to safeguard accounts.