Understanding SIM-swap scams and how to protect yourself

Police are warning of a rise in SIM-swapping fraud, where cyber-criminals hijack people’s mobile numbers to steal bank codes and access online accounts. Reports of the scam doubled nationally in 2023 and 2024, with nearly 3,000 incidents recorded last year, according to Action Fraud.

Det Sgt Danny Gavin, of Merseyside Police’s cybercrime unit, said many victims only realise they’ve been targeted after losing significant sums. “Criminals can take over accounts, make transfers, order goods, and steal personal information,” he explained.

SIM-swapping happens when fraudsters trick mobile providers into transferring a victim’s number to a device they control. This lets them intercept security codes sent by text, bypassing two-factor authentication on banking apps, social media, and email.

Last month, a 45-year-old man in Salford was arrested after a local businessman reportedly lost £250,000 to fraud.

Det Sgt Gavin said criminals often gather personal information from social media or impersonate mobile providers. “Your phone number is now like a key to your entire digital identity,” he added.

Signs of SIM-swapping include sudden loss of mobile service, unexpected texts or emails, inability to access accounts, or unauthorised transactions. Police advise using strong, unique passwords and keeping mobile software up to date to stay protected.