Ever Heard Of SIM Swap Attacks?

I will explain SIM swapping, a method used by attackers, especially in the Web3 space, to steal from their victims. Learn what a SIM swap attack is, how it's carried out, and how to protect yourself from it.

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đź•’ 9:49 PM

đź“… May 23, 2025

✍️ By Lilethangeorge

What is the role of a SIM card?

You already know what a Sim Card is. It is a small chip that allows a mobile phone to connect to a cellular network. Without it, the phone cannot make calls or send texts. It also enables 2-Factor Authentication (2FA), which is an extra layer of security for your online accounts.


How are SIM swaps carried out?

In a SIM swap attack, the attacker tricks the mobile carrier into switching the victim’s phone number to a SIM card they control. This is often done through social engineering, where the attacker pretends to be the victim to manipulate the carrier’s support staff.


Methods attackers use to seem legitimate

-  Answering Security Questions: Attackers can find answers to security questions by looking at the victim's social media or using phishing emails to gather information.

-  Using Malware: Some attackers install malware on the victim’s device to steal personal information.

-  Buying Information: Attackers can also buy personal information from the dark web if the victim's data was exposed in a previous breach.


Why are SIM swaps common?

SIM swap attacks are easier to perform compared to technical hacking because they rely on manipulating people (social engineering) rather than finding and exploiting software vulnerabilities. 


How to protect against SIM swap attacks

-  Use Authentication Apps: Instead of using 2FA that relies on your phone number, use authentication apps like Okta or Authy.

-  Create Strong Passwords: Make sure your mobile phone account has a strong, unique password.

-  Keep Personal Information Private: Be cautious about sharing personal information online, which can be used by attackers to answer security questions or impersonate you.