The Article
Most people think about protecting passwords, debit cards, and online accounts. But there’s another piece of personal information that criminals increasingly target: your phone number.
Through a scam known as a SIM swap or unauthorized port-out, criminals attempt to transfer your mobile number to a SIM card, device, or carrier they control. If successful, they may be able to receive your phone calls, text messages, and even security codes used to verify access to online accounts.
Because many banks, email providers, and online services use text messages as part of identity verification, protecting your mobile number is an important part of protecting your financial life.
Four Ways to Protect Your Mobile Number
- Enable Your Carrier’s Security Features
Most major mobile carriers offer tools designed to prevent unauthorized SIM changes and number transfers.- Verizon customers: Enable Number Lock.
Learn more about Verizon Number Lock - AT&T customers: Enable Wireless Account Lock.
Learn more about AT&T Wireless Account Lock - T-Mobile customers: Enable Account Takeover Protection.
Learn more about T-Mobile Account Takeover ProtectionThese protections can help stop criminals from transferring your number without authorization.
- Verizon customers: Enable Number Lock.
- Strengthen Your Carrier Account
Use a strong, unique password for your mobile carrier account and create a PIN that is not easily guessed. This adds another layer of protection if someone attempts to access your account. - Never Share Verification Codes
Be skeptical of unexpected calls, texts, or emails requesting security codes, passwords, or PINs.Legitimate companies generally will not contact you and ask you to provide one-time verification codes. Sharing those codes could give a criminal access to your accounts. - Limit What You Share Online
Criminals often gather personal information from social media and other public sources before attempting identity theft or account takeover scams.Be thoughtful about how much personal information you make publicly available online.
One Warning Sign You Shouldn’t Ignore
If your phone suddenly loses cellular service and you don’t know why, take it seriously.
According to the FCC, an unexpected loss of service can be an early warning sign that your number has been transferred or compromised. Contact your mobile carrier immediately using a trusted phone number or website to verify the status of your account.
Protect Your Number. Protect Your Money.
Protecting your phone number is an important part of protecting your financial life. A few simple security measures today can help reduce your risk of fraud tomorrow.
If you have questions about SIM swap scams, fraud prevention, or protecting your accounts, call FirstBank Southwest at 806-355-9661. We’re always happy to answer questions and help you find trusted resources to stay informed and protected.
Looking for additional information? The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and major wireless carriers provide educational resources about SIM swap scams, port-out fraud, and mobile account security. We encourage customers who want to dive deeper into the topic to review these trusted resources and stay informed about emerging fraud trends.