Can a SIM Card Get a Virus?

Your cell phone is probably with you at all times, and you likely use it for everything from telling your mom you’ll call her later to managing your retirement portfolio to checking confidential work emails. It’s full of useful information for fraudsters to make use of.

FBI research shows increases in cybercrime reports of up to 10% with a 22% increase in reported losses due to cybercrime. So it’s more important than ever to be aware of potential weak points, like your SIM card.

The short answer is: no, your SIM card can’t get a virus. It has limited processing power and memory. It can, however, be hacked.

How Can Someone Hack Your SIM Card?

Cloning

SIM card cloning is what it sounds like: a scammer duplicates your SIM card to get access to your information and accounts. With an exact clone of your SIM card, it’s possible for a hacker to access your device and copy its contents onto their own device. This gives them access to your accounts. 

Impersonation

This type of scam has the same intent as cloning your SIM card but through a less high-tech route. Scammers call your wireless provider and, using public records or other forms of personal information, request a new SIM card.

Spyware

This is often called SIM jacking or SIM swapping. The hacker essentially hijacks your mobile device to get control of your SIM card. Hackers achieve this by sending spyware or a spyware code to your phone. 

What Are the Risks of SIM Card Hacking?

While it may not seem like a big deal for someone to access your SIM card, it can have some serious implications.

• Identity Theft: Having access to your SIM card and, therefore, your phone number and accounts allows scammers to commit identity theft.

• Account Access: If a scammer clones your device, they can access apps and accounts saved to your phone. Things like bank accounts, credit cards, and even memberships that give you access to things like flights or rental cars can pose an issue.

• Communication Monitoring: Even if a hacker doesn’t clone your device, reading your texts and listening to voicemails or phone calls can give them key information and lead to the first two security concerns.

How Do You Know if Your SIM Card Is Compromised?

SIM card hacking can have devastating consequences. But there are some obvious signs that someone has gained access to your device, including:

• Losing service
• Not getting verification codes
• Unfamiliar login attempts
• Weird cell phone bills
• Location tracking or services showing you in unusual locations

What Do You Do About It?

The faster you act, the better you’ll be able to protect your information. If you suspect a hack, doing your due diligence won’t cost you anything but a little time if your hunch ends up being incorrect.

• Contact your wireless provider. Explain your concerns to them first in foremost so they can help you secure your account.

• Change your passwords. It’s impossible to know exactly what a scammer has access to, so change the passwords and PINs for all of your accounts. 

• Check your credit report. Don’t just check your bank and credit card statements. Double-check on your credit report. Scammers can open up new accounts in your name as a form of identity fraud.

SIM Security Made SIMple

It’s important to protect yourself from the potential risks to ensure your data — and identity — is properly protected. You can’t have a wireless phone without a SIM or eSIM, but you can use a custom phone number to add an additional layer of separation between yourself and your information. 

Try Burner today to protect yourself and your SIM card in one easy step.

Sources:

eSIM Cards FAQ | Federal Communications Commission

FBI Releases Internet Crime Report | FBI San Francisco

Learn About Your Credit Report and How To Get a Copy | USA.gov

8 Simple Steps To Prevent SIM Swap Fraud | Forbes