Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to target unsuspecting users, and your SIM card has now become one of their biggest weapons. A growing number of cases show that fraudsters are using a technique known as SIM Swap or SIM Porting to steal personal information and drain bank accounts within minutes. In this type of fraud, criminals first collect your personal details through social media, phishing links, or fake messages. They then pose as representatives of a telecom company and get your mobile number activated on a new SIM card without your knowledge.
Once the SIM swap is successful, the signal on your phone suddenly disappears. You may see a “no network” message and find yourself unable to make calls or send messages. This happens because your number is now active on the fraudster’s SIM, while the SIM in your phone becomes useless. With control over your number, criminals receive all OTPs meant for you and quickly reset your UPI, net banking, and other financial passwords. By the time the victim realizes something is wrong, the bank account may already be emptied.
SIM Swap fraud essentially means transferring your existing mobile number to another SIM card, giving criminals full access to your calls, messages, and verification codes. The loss of network signal is often the first and most important warning sign. According to reports, including coverage by The Tribune, sudden and unexplained signal loss should never be ignored, especially if it does not resolve after restarting the phone or reinserting the SIM.
You should be extremely alert if someone claiming to be from your telecom company asks for an OTP or personal details over a call or message. Telecom providers do not ask for OTPs in this manner. If your signal vanishes unexpectedly, it is advisable to immediately contact your bank and telecom operator to block transactions and verify the status of your SIM. Staying cautious, protecting personal information, and acting quickly at the first sign of trouble are the most effective ways to avoid falling victim to SIM Swap fraud.
