3 Tactics Cybercriminals Use to Hack SIM Cards and How to Defend Against Them
1. SIM cloning
SIM cloning involves creating a duplicate copy of your SIM card by hackers. IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) is a unique identifier that can be accessed by attackers for the purpose of creating an identical copy of your SIM card. Once your SIM card has been cloned, they can intercept your calls, messages, and even gain unauthorised access to your personal information.
To protect your SIM card consider the following measures:
● Opt for cyber insurance - Availing personal cyber insurance solutions from a trusted insurance broker is a wise move to protect your assets and finances. A cyber insurance policy covers a wide range of cases, from viruses to cyber crimes and cyber incidents.
● Frequently monitor your mobile network - It is important to monitor your network activity. Contact your mobile service provider immediately if you notice any suspicious behaviour, such as sudden signal loss or unusual call activities.
● Consider using secure communication apps - Make use of calling and messaging apps that provide end-to-end encryption to protect your communications even if your SIM card is compromised.
2. SIM swapping
An attacker uses SIM swapping to transfer your phone number to a SIM card controlled by the attacker. Through this technique, hackers can hijack your phone number and gain access to your SMS-based two-factor authentication accounts.
To protect your SIM card consider the following measures:
● Implement more secure authentication methods - Consider using apps-based authenticators or physical security keys instead of SMS-based two-factor authentication.
● Maintain the privacy of your personal information - Do not share personal information on social media platforms or with unknown individuals who may use it to manipulate your mobile service provider.
3. Remote SIM card hacking
Hacking SIM cards remotely, or SIM card hijacking, involves exploiting vulnerabilities in cellular networks. In order to gain control over a target's SIM card remotely, attackers use social engineering techniques and exploit security weaknesses in mobile networks.
To protect your SIM card consider the following measures:
● Ensure your mobile device’s software is always updated - To ensure that you always have the latest security patches and bug fixes on your smartphone, keep the smartphone's operating system and apps up-to-date.
● Turn on SIM card lock for added security - Improve security by adding a PIN code or password to prevent unauthorised access.
You can enhance your defences against SIM card hacking attacks by understanding the various types of hacking techniques and implementing the above protective measures. As a reputed and trusted insurance and risk advisor in Mumbai, Raghnall offers a wide range of services and insurance solutions from personal cyber insurance to corporate cyber insurance solutions to D&O insurance solutions and many more.
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