SIM cloning scam is an online fraud process in which hackers duplicate a SIM card by replicating its unique identifiers (UIDS), including the authentication key (Ki) and IMSI, onto a empty SIM. It gives them access to sidestep two-factor authentication and intercept calls and messages to dupe the victim financially and steal their personal information. The attackers use sophisticated hardware and software for SIM cloning. Therefore, users should activate SIM PIN protection on their devices and use encrypted SIM cards to prevent falling prey.
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A cloned SIM can function similarly to the original because it replicates the key identifiers that mobile networks use to identify a user. Here’s how it works:
The International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) is a unique number allotted to a SIM card.
The Authentication Key (Ki) is a secret code provided by the network operator to the SIM card.
Hackers extract these keys from the original SIM using various tools and copy them to a blank card.
When a mobile phone connects to the network with a duplicate SIM that mimics the original IMSI, it functions identically to the original.
How Does SIM Cloning Allow Hackers to Intercept Calls & Messages?
As both the original and cloned SIM cards share the same identity, the network considers them the same user. This way, the hackers gain unauthorised access over the phone and can control it while intercepting the calls, messages, and authentication codes meant for the original user (the victim).
How SIM Cloning Works?
Let's take a look at the following pointers to understand the step-by-step process of how SIM cloning works:
Gaining access to the target SIM card
To gain control over the target's SIM card, the hackers need to access the card, either physically or via other cyberattack strategies, such as social engineering and phishing.
Extracting SIM card keys
Hackers mostly target the IMSI and Ki of a SIM card. They extract this data using various methods, which include the following:
SIM card reader: If the scammers manage to get the physical SIM, they place the same into a card reader. This card reader is connected to a system with SIM cloning software.
Mobile device: In some cases, they use specially designed software or jailbroken mobile phones to pull the data.
Cracking the encryption
The latest SIM cards are strongly encrypted to protect the Ki. However, older versions are likely to be vulnerable to various attacks.
If the SIM uses modern algorithms, cloning is likely to be more difficult than usual. In such cases, hackers use advanced tools to crack the encryption to break into SIM data.
Writing the copied data to a blank SIM
Once the hackers retrieve the IMSI and Ki, they take a blank and programmable SIM to copy this data onto it with the help of a SIM card writer. This process creates a clone of the original SIM.
Using the cloned SIM
Then, the attackers put the cloned SIM into a compatible phone and use it like an original one. As both the original and cloned SIMS have the same IMSI and Ki, they can connect to the mobile network and work alike. An attacker can do the following things using a cloned SIM:
Intercept calls and messages
Execute identity theft or fraud
Bypass two-factor authentication (2FA)
Avoiding being detected
Telecom service providers can detect multiple devices using the same IMSI. So, the next step the attackers are likely to take is to avoid being detected. For this, they use the techniques:
Turn off the real SIM by hacking it.
Use location spoofing tools to avoid detection.
Switch networks frequently to stay under the radar.
Warning Signs of SIM Cloning Fraud
If you notice any of the following signs, it could be a red flag:
Receiving unexpected OTPs or login attempts – If you receive one-time passwords (OTPs) or login alerts for profiles you did not access, someone else is likely to be trying to access your data.
Inability to make calls or send messages – Suddenly, if you are not able to make a call or text, but your mobile phone shows a full network, your SIM is likely to be cloned.
Unexplained charges on your phone bill – If you find unauthorised international calls, premium SMS charges, or unusual data usage, it could mean someone else is also using your number.
Receiving alerts for account activity you did not initiate – If banks, social media, or email services notify you of logins or changes you did not make, it could be a cloned SIM granting hackers' access.
Consequences of SIM Cloning Scam
A cloned SIM card can lead to several severe consequences. It includes the following:
Financial theft and fraud – Hackers can obtain your banking transaction-related OTPs to make unauthorised money transfers and drain your account.
Identity theft – With a cloned SIM card in hand, attackers can pretend to be you, access confidential data, and misuse your identity to commit illegal activities and scams.
Loss of access to online accounts – Many online service platforms use phone numbers for authorisation. With the help of a cloned SIM, hackers can reset your passwords using your phone number. Also, they may block you from your online profiles.
Compromised two-factor authentication (2FA): If your number is cloned, hackers can bypass security codes and access your accounts.
Examples of SIM Cloning
A Telecom Service Provider issued a duplicate SIM to a fraudster without proper verification; the soldier lost lakhs from his bank account!
In this case, a hacker successfully obtained a duplicate SIM card from a leading telecom service provider without undergoing the proper verification processes.
Generally, mobile service providers follow strict Know Your Customer (KYC) norms for new SIMS. This KYC is vital if it is a replacement SIM for an existing number.
However, due to loopholes in the process, the hacker managed to convince the telecom company to issue a duplicate SIM.
Once the SIM was issued and the crook had control over the victim’s number, they were able to receive OTPs (One-Time Passwords) sent by banks and other services. It allowed them to access sensitive accounts and carry out fraudulent transactions, resulting in an Indian Army soldier losing INR 2,87,630 from his bank account.
A 60-year-old techie from Bengaluru became a victim of a SIM cloning scam!
Here, a scammer, pretending to be a bank officer, told him that his credit card had been approved. The scammer also claimed that the bank was offering him a free mobile phone because he had accumulated a substantial number of reward points.
The techie later received a package with the bank’s logo, containing a mobile phone. Inside, there was a note instructing him to insert his SIM card into the phone and start using it.
Unknowingly, he followed the instructions. However, the phone had a hidden SIM cloning app installed. Within a few days, the scammer gained access to his banking details.
When the techie visited his bank, he was shocked to find that his fixed deposit of INR 2.8 crore had been broken and all the money was gone.
How to Protect Yourself from SIM Cloning?
Here are some of the best answers for ‘how to prevent SIM cloning’. Let's have a quick look:
Secure Your SIM
Make sure to set a strong PIN for your SIM. It will help you prevent any unauthorised access to the same.
Do not share any SIM card-related details like the 18 to 22-digit code known as ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) or SIM number with anyone (unknown people or other sources).
Keep your card physically secure. Additionally, it is always advisable to avoid sharing devices.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Use MFA as much as possible. It adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
It is safer and more reliable to use authentication apps, such as Google Authenticator or Authy, rather than SMS-based authentication. The latter has a higher chance of getting your SIM cloned.
Limit Personal Information Sharing
Do not share confidential details like your phone number on unsecured websites and social media platforms.
If you get any calls, emails, or texts asking for SIM-related questions, avoid those.
Update Security Settings
Check your mobile carrier's security settings regularly. Do not forget to enable additional protections, such as SIM lock and account verification.
Always keep your phone software updated. It helps patch the loopholes that hackers are likely to exploit.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you get unexpected access requests or authentication messages or your phone signal vanishes for quite some time, get in touch with your mobile service provider right away.
Review your accounts for any kind of unauthorised activity. Always report any suspicious activities related to your account linked to your phone number without fail.
Role of Cyber Insurance in Protecting Against SIM Cloning
Cyber insurance serves as a safety net in combating the consequences of SIM cloning. Here are the benefits of having a dedicated cyber insurance coverage:
Financial Protection: A cyber insurance plan bridges the financial gaps by covering the monetary losses arising from identity theft, fraud, and unauthorised transactions.
Legal Support: It also covers the expenses for sorting out legal issues, fraud claims, and identity theft-related legalities.
Account Recovery: A comprehensive cyber insurance plan also helps with the costs of account recovery, including restoring hacked data and systems.
Conclusion
Securing mobile phones and SIM cards is important to prevent SIM cloning fraud. You can do this by using strong SIM card PINs, enabling MFA, and avoiding sharing personal information as much as possible.
Choosing safe authentication methods, including app-based verification instead of SMS-based 2FA, can also help you further enhance the security of your devices.
One of the most crucial things to consider here is getting a dedicated cyber insurance policy. Sometimes, no matter how hard you try or how careful you are, accidents can happen. In such cases, cyber insurance comes in handy. It provides financial protection and legal support in case of fraud. Also, it helps recover losses and safeguard your reputation.
Stay vigilant and be proactive to prevent SIM cloning scams!
Disclaimer: Above mentioned insurers are arranged in alphabetical order. Policybazaar.com does not endorse, rate, or recommend any particular insurer or insurance product offered by an insurer.
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