Know More About 'SIM Swapping Scam' And How To Protect Yourself (Image: Pixabay)

Smartphones are the popular targets of scammers, as they contain numerous confidential details to the users. Recently, a Delhi-based advocate reportedly claimed that she lost Rs 50 lakh to a “SIM swapping scam”. According to an Indian Express report, the victim lost money from her bank account after receiving three missed calls from unidentified numbers.

Notably, the Delhi Police’s Cyber Cell said that the 35-year-old advocate has not answered any of the phone calls from the scammers and has not shared any personal information or OTP. The incident was reported on October 18, and the police found that the money was debited from the victim”s bank account several times without her consent. Earlier in February, a private school teacher reportedly raised a similar complaint to the “SIM swapping scam”.

“SIM Swapping Scam” is a technique used by scammers to take control of your phone number. For this, scammers will approach your mobile carrier and report a fake theft of the victim’s SIM card and/or mobile phone. The scammers will also provide fake ID proof to gain trust. After collecting the new SIM through this method, the fraudsters will start receiving one-time passwords (OTPs) and other vital information to proceed with financial transactions through the victim”s bank account. According to Microsoft, scammers even purchase victims’ personal details using the dark web.

To secure the SIM card from scams, users should maintain certain safety precautions. Mainly, avoid sharing various personal information, as scammers can use it to impersonate you online. Also, if your SIM card is locked or it shows an error message like “no valid,” immediately approach your service provider. If you find suspicious activities in your bank account, contact the bank authorities and block your account to avoid further fraud. Most importantly, you should regularly change bank account passwords and also make sure that you are receiving alerts for your banking transactions via SMS or e-mail.