Can Somebody Hack Your Phone Using a SIM Card?

Nowadays people are highly interested in their privacy. Many times people ask if somebody can hack your phone using only a tiny SIM card. 

It seems a little surprising but it is really possible. SIM card has now become a vital component of your online life and if it gets into the wrong hands then your personal information, location, and banking details can all be compromised.

What is a SIM card and how it works?

SIM stands for Subscriber Identity Module. It is a tiny piece that links you to the mobile network. Whenever you call up a person or access the internet, SIM verifies your identity. 

The verification is carried out in a centralized database of SIM where information of every SIM is saved, i.e., CNIC number, mobile operator, and name of registered person. This indicates that these SIM owner details determine who the actual owner of the SIM is. 

SIM gets activated through this system and can be authenticated anytime. But there are chances to misuse this database and SIM information if a hacker also accesses it. How does hacking occur from SIM card?

Hackers employ some specific ways to hack SIM card.

One of the popular methods is SIM swap attack, in which the hacker calls up the mobile network and has the victim's SIM deactivated and the same number activated on a new SIM with himself. The moment this is done, he can see your OTP codes, messages, and login notifications. 

Another method is remote SIM exploitation, where the hacker sends commands to the SIM card through specially designed invisible messages that are not visible to you. 

Apart from this, some hackers track your real-time location using IV tracker tools. This software operate in a manner that they track SIM details and signal strength pertaining to the SIM, particularly when your data has entered a leaked SIM database. 

What do hackers do with SIM details?

Once your SIM details have fallen into the hands of a hacker, he can utilize them in numerous ways.

To begin with, he can steal your funds by getting his hands on OTP codes at your bank. Then he will be able to access your social media accounts and release your personal information. Most hackers identify your location precisely using IV tracker. 

And if they gain access to any SIM database, then they can also obtain fake SIMs in your name and use them illicitly. Thus, it is extremely crucial that you keep verifying your SIM owner details periodically and make sure no unauthorized number is listed on your CNIC. 

How to protect your SIM from being hacked?

You can protect your SIM from being hacked by taking some easy yet powerful steps.

First of all, make use of PTA's SIM Information System and find out how many SIMs are linked to your CNIC. These procedures will inform you if there is any additional or unknown SIM in your name. Never tap suspicious links, calls and spam messages.

 Along with your phone, lock your SIM with a PIN so that the SIM does not get activated even if someone has physical access. Never share your sensitive information through SMS or WhatsApp, and do verify the SIM owner details once a month. 

If you think that your information has been included in any SIM database, then take action immediately. 

How to know whether your SIM is safe?

If you think that someone has used your SIM unnecessarily, then there are a few easy steps that you can adopt.

First of all send an SMS to your CNIC number 668 (without hyphen), this will inform you about the number of SIMs registered on your name. Second step is to go to livetracker.me, which is your PTA official website where you can verify real-time SIM database.

If you receive an unknown number, call your network helpline right away and report a complaint. This method makes you safe and safeguards your original SIM details. Is SIM Hacking Illegal?

As per Pakistan's cyber law, unauthorized use of SIM in one's name, or misuse of one's information, is a serious offense. In case you have any such information then do write to us.

If someone is abusing your SIM or SIM details, you can approach FIA Cyber Crime Wing. You may also report online through their complaint system. SIM hacking is not only a crime but also a highly individual privacy breach which can pervasively influence all aspects of your life.

Security of your SIM lies in your hands

Now SIM card is not only a calling tool, it is a part of your whole digital identity.

If you don't make it secure, you can lose your data, money and identity. So it is essential that you verify your SIM owner details every month, do not share your SIM information with anyone, and protect it with IV tracker tools and apps.

 You can safeguard yourself against cyber fraud using the tools of PTA as well as SIM tracking services. Do not disclose your CNIC number on public platforms and remain vigilant so that your information is not leaked elsewhere. Your best defense is only your awareness.