A phone porting or SIM swap scam transfers your mobile number to a SIM or eSIM controlled by a criminal. The criminal can receive calls, text messages, and SMS security codes used to access accounts.
Warning signs
- Your phone unexpectedly displays SOS or No service without an outage.
- You receive an unexpected notification about a new SIM or provider.
- You see unfamiliar logins or transactions and cannot receive security codes.
Stay safe
- Set a security PIN with your telecommunications provider.
- Use authenticator apps or passkeys instead of SMS authentication where possible.
- Protect personal details, use unique passwords, and shred documents containing identity information.
- Contact your provider immediately if service stops unexpectedly, then contact your bank about suspicious activity.