SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sim-swap-scam

In a SIM swap scam, what does the crook trick your phone company into doing?

Moving your phone number to the crook's SIM card, so your texts and codes go to them.

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  1. Moving your phone number to their SIM card ✔
  2. Unlocking your phone but leaving service in place
  3. Changing the name shown on outgoing calls

Why: The FBI says criminals pose as you and trick the carrier into switching your number to a SIM card they hold. Then your calls, texts and login codes go to their phone, and they can reset your passwords.

Huh, didn't know that: The FBI suggests stronger sign-in methods than text codes, such as a standalone authenticator app or a physical security token.

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References

Answer: Moving your phone number to their SIM card. The FBI says criminals pose as you and trick the carrier into switching your number to a SIM card they hold. Then your calls, texts and login codes go to their phone, and they can reset your passwords.

  1. Criminals Increasing SIM Swap Schemes to Steal Millions of Dollars from US Public (FBI IC3 PSA) www.ic3.gov/PSA/2022/PSA220208
    tricking the mobile carrier into switching the victim's mobile number to a SIM card in the criminal's possession.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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