FBI warns iPhone and Android users about ‘SIM-swapping’ attacks
The FBI has issued a warning about a sharp increase in “SIM-swapping” attacks, where criminals take over victims’ phone numbers and use them to gain access to sensitive accounts and information.
In a public service announcement, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) said that SIM-swapping attacks have increased by 120% since 2018. The agency said that the attacks have been used to steal money, cryptocurrency, and personal information, as well as to commit identity theft and fraud.
SIM-swapping attacks typically start with the criminal obtaining the victim’s personal information, such as their name, date of birth, and Social Security number. The criminal can then use this information to contact the victim’s mobile phone carrier and request a new SIM card. Once the criminal has the new SIM card, they can use it to activate the victim’s phone number on their own device.
With the victim’s phone number under their control, the criminal can then use it to reset passwords for the victim’s online accounts, including their email, bank, and social media accounts. The criminal can also use the phone number to intercept text messages, including two-factor authentication codes.
The FBI recommends that iPhone and Android users take the following steps to protect themselves from SIM-swapping attacks:
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication for all of your online accounts. This will make it more difficult for criminals to access your accounts even if they have your phone number.
- Be careful about what personal information you share online. Don’t post your Social Security number, date of birth, or other sensitive information on social media or other public websites.
- Contact your mobile phone carrier and ask them to put a lock on your account. This will make it more difficult for criminals to request a new SIM card without your permission.
- Be aware of the signs of a SIM-swapping attack. If you suddenly lose service on your phone, or if you start receiving text messages from unknown numbers, it’s possible that you’re being targeted by a SIM-swapping attack.
- Report any suspected SIM-swapping attacks to your mobile phone carrier and the FBI. You can file a complaint with the FBI’s IC3 at ic3.gov.
SIM-swapping attacks are a serious threat to your security and privacy. By taking the steps outlined above, you can help to protect yourself from these attacks.
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