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In recent years, SIM swapping attacks have increased, prompting the mobile industry to try to combat them more effectively.
SIM swapping is a type of fraud in which a scammer transfers your mobile phone number to a SIM in their own device. By intercepting calls or texts sent to your phone, they can capture two-factor authentication codes and other information intended for you. From there, the attacker can take over not only your mobile account but also other accounts that rely on authentication.
Also: The shadowy SIM farms behind those incessant scam texts - and how to stay safe
SIM swapping attacks can play out in a couple of different ways. A scammer may be able to convince the mobile carrier to transfer the SIM to a new device by pretending to be you. Criminals have also offered money to employees at such carriers as Verizon and T-Mobile, tempting them to perform SIM swaps.
The three major US carriers -- AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon -- all offer their own tools to protect your account from SIM swapping scams. I subscribe to Verizon on my main iPhone and T-Mobile and AT&T on my test and backup phones, so I've used these security settings for all three. Here's how to protect yourself from these types of attacks across all three carriers.
1. Verizon Wireless
Verizon offers two safeguards against SIM swapping attacks. SIM Protection prevents unauthorized SIM or device changes on your phone number unless you disable the setting. Number Lock blocks any unauthorized swaps of your mobile phone number. I've turned on both and would advise all Verizon subscribers to do the same.
Also: Still using a physical SIM? This $25 kit brings eSIM to your old phone - here's how
SIM swapping attacksTo set these up, sign in to your account at the Verizon website or through the My Verizon app for iOS or Android.
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