Lock Your Number Against SIM Swaps

What a SIM Swap Actually Is

Your phone number is tied to a SIM card. A SIM swap is when an attacker contacts your carrier, pretends to be you, and asks to move your number to their SIM. Once it works, your phone loses service and every call and text, including two-factor codes, goes to them.

With your number, they reset your email, then your bank, then anything that texts you a code. It is one of the fastest ways an identity thief turns a little of your information into full account takeover.

Turn On Your Carrier's Free Lock

Every major US carrier offers a free setting that blocks your number from being moved without extra verification. Turn it on today.

Set a Real Account PIN

• Add a carrier account PIN or passcode that is required before any change. Make it unique, not your birthday or the last four of your Social.
• This is separate from your phone's unlock code. It protects the account at the carrier, which is where the swap happens.

Move Your Codes Off Text Messages

SMS codes are the prize in a SIM swap. For your important accounts, switch two-factor authentication to an authenticator app or a hardware security key instead of text messages. See our passwords and 2FA guide.

• Best: a hardware key for email, bank, and password manager.
• Good: an authenticator app for everything else.
• Last resort: SMS, only where nothing else is offered.

Signs You Are Being Swapped, and What to Do

• Your phone suddenly shows No SIM or No Service for no reason, and you cannot call or text.
• You get password-reset emails or login alerts you did not request.

If it happens: from another phone, call your carrier immediately to reclaim the number, then lock your email and bank. Speed matters, the whole attack can run in minutes.

Common Questions