Cyberattacks that steal personal data are on the rise. While most people are aware of phishing attacks, very few are aware of the dangers of so-called SIM card swapping, whereby cybercriminals obtain a duplicate of a victim’s mobile SIM card. The problem even prompted the FBI to warn people. Check Point Software Technologies offers three simple tips to help you avoid becoming a victim.

How SIM swapping works
In order to obtain a duplicate of your SIM card, cybercriminals must have access to your personal data, such as your ID, phone number and full name. If they get hold of it using phishing techniques, they can simply contact your mobile carrier and pretend to be you to get a duplicate SIM card.

Once this happens, the cybercriminal only has to insert the card into a device to access all of the victim’s account information and data, including call logs and message history. From that moment he has full control and it becomes easy to access your banking app and steal your money.

How to stay safe
Beware of personal data: this is the information that cybercriminals need to duplicate your SIM card. And that’s why it’s so important to be careful when visiting websites. Make sure that the site in question is official and has all the security measures in place, such as an encrypted connection.

Be aware of phishing: You need to know the telltale signs of a phishing attack to prevent your data from being stolen. Watch out for emails and text messages that contain spelling mistakes, even if you know the sender. Pay close attention to the domain name to make sure it’s genuine. The same goes for odd-looking links or attachments.

Beware of signal loss: An easy and safe way to know that your SIM card has been duplicated is that you will lose your mobile signal completely. As a result, you will no longer be able to make or receive calls and texts. If this happens, you should contact the authorities and your mobile operator, so that they can deactivate the SIM card and start the process of recovering your data.