SIM Swapping in the UK: What You Need to Know (And How to Stay Safe)

18 September

Cybercrime is evolving fast—and one of the most worrying trends to hit the UK recently is SIM swapping. If you’ve never heard of it, you’re not alone. But it’s something everyone with a mobile phone should be aware of.

Let’s break down what SIM swapping is, why it’s on the rise, and how you can protect yourself.

What Is SIM Swapping?

SIM swapping (also called SIM hijacking or SIM jacking) is a type of identity theft where fraudsters take control of your mobile phone number. They do this by tricking your mobile provider—like EE, O2, Vodafone, or Three—into transferring your number to a new SIM card that they control.

Once they have access to your number, they can intercept your calls and texts, including two-factor authentication (2FA) codes used to log into your bank accounts, emails, and other sensitive services.

How Does It Happen?

A SIM swap usually involves a mix of social engineering, phishing, and data breaches.

Here’s a typical process:

  1. Gathering Information: The attacker finds your personal details (full name, address, date of birth, etc.) via phishing, data leaks, or social media.

  2. Contacting Your Mobile Provider: They impersonate you and request a SIM replacement, claiming their phone was lost or stolen.

  3. Activating the New SIM: If successful, your number gets transferred to their SIM.

  4. Taking Over Accounts: With your number, they can reset passwords, receive 2FA codes, and potentially gain access to your bank, email, and social media accounts.

Is It Happening in the UK?

Yes—and it’s getting worse.

UK victims have reported thousands of pounds stolen from online banking and crypto wallets. In 2023, Action Fraud received hundreds of SIM swap complaints, and it’s suspected many more go unreported.

Major mobile networks in the UK have been working to tighten procedures, but fraudsters are persistent and creative.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

Here are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Use App-Based 2FA

Avoid using SMS for two-factor authentication when possible. Instead, use authenticator apps like Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy.

2. Be Cautious with Personal Info

Limit what you share on social media. Seemingly harmless posts (like your pet’s name or birthday) can give hackers clues to your security questions.

3. Set Up a PIN or Password with Your Mobile Provider

Many UK mobile networks let you add an extra layer of security to your account. Contact your provider and ask for this.

4. Monitor Your Mobile Signal

If your phone suddenly loses service in an area where you usually have signal, and others don’t, it could be a red flag that your number has been transferred.

5. Check for Unusual Account Activity

Keep an eye out for password reset emails or login alerts from services you use. Act fast if anything looks suspicious.

What To Do If You Think You’ve Been SIM Swapped

  1. Contact Your Mobile Provider Immediately. Ask them to suspend your number and investigate the issue.

  2. Change Passwords for All Key Accounts.

  3. Inform Your Bank. They may freeze your accounts and monitor for fraud.

  4. Report to Action Fraud: actionfraud.police.uk

  5. Alert Friends and Family: Your compromised number could be used to scam them too.

Final Thoughts

SIM swapping is a scary and growing threat in the UK. But a few simple precautions can go a long way toward keeping you safe. Always stay alert, think before you click, and double-check who you’re sharing information with.

If your mobile provider offers enhanced account security—take it. And consider switching to more secure forms of 2FA wherever possible.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Your phone number is more powerful than you think.

LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR DATA SECURITY