SIM Swap Attacks: How Hackers Steal Creator Phone Numbers (And How to Stop Them)

Your phone number is more valuable to hackers than you might think. With control of your number, attackers can intercept verification codes, reset passwords, and take over your social media accounts, email, and even bank accounts. This attack is called a SIM swap, and creators are increasingly targeted because of their high-value accounts.

This guide explains exactly how SIM swap attacks work and what you can do to protect yourself before it happens.

What is a SIM swap attack?

A SIM swap attack (also called SIM hijacking or SIM splitting) occurs when a hacker convinces your mobile carrier to transfer your phone number to a SIM card they control. Once successful, the attacker receives all your calls and text messages -- including those precious two-factor authentication codes.

The attack typically works like this:

• Information gathering: The attacker collects personal information about you from social media, data breaches, or phishing
• Social engineering: They call your carrier pretending to be you, claiming they lost their phone or need a new SIM
• Verification bypass: Using your personal details, they answer security questions or convince the representative
• Number transfer: Your number is moved to their SIM card -- your phone loses service
• Account takeover: They immediately trigger password resets and intercept SMS verification codes

Why creators are prime targets for SIM swaps

Content creators face elevated risk because:

• Public information: Your name, location, and personal details are often publicly available
• High-value accounts: YouTube channels, Instagram accounts, and TikTok profiles with large followings are worth thousands
• Financial access: Monetized accounts connect to payment systems
• Predictable contact: Business emails and sometimes phone numbers are publicly listed
• SMS 2FA reliance: Many platforms default to SMS verification, which SIM swaps defeat

Warning signs of a SIM swap in progress

These signs indicate you may be targeted or already compromised:

• Sudden loss of cell service: Your phone shows "No Service" or "Emergency Calls Only" unexpectedly
• Unable to make calls or send texts: Calls fail even though you have signal bars
• Unexpected password reset emails: You receive notifications for password changes you did not request
• Account lockout notifications: Alerts that someone is trying to access your accounts
• Carrier notifications: Messages about SIM changes or account modifications you did not make

If you notice these signs, act immediately. Call your carrier from a different phone to verify your account status.

How to protect yourself from SIM swap attacks

Take these steps to significantly reduce your risk:

1. Add a PIN or passcode to your carrier account

This is the single most important protection. Contact your carrier and request:

• Account PIN: A separate PIN required for any account changes (different from your device passcode)
• Port freeze or number lock: Prevents your number from being transferred without additional verification
• Extra security questions: Some carriers offer additional verification layers

How to set this up by carrier:

• Verizon: Call 611 or go to My Verizon > Account > Security
• AT&T: Add "extra security" at att.com/securitykeys or call 800-331-0500
• T-Mobile: Call 611 or add Account Takeover Protection in the app
• UK carriers: Contact your provider directly to add a port protection PIN

2. Stop using SMS for two-factor authentication

SMS-based 2FA is the weakest form of two-factor authentication because SIM swaps defeat it completely. Switch to:

• Authenticator apps: Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or Authy generate codes on your device
• Hardware security keys: YubiKey or Google Titan keys provide the strongest protection
• App-based verification: Some platforms like Google offer push notifications instead of SMS

3. Protect your personal information

Attackers use personal details to impersonate you to carriers:

• Limit what you share publicly: Birthday, hometown, mother's maiden name are common security questions
• Use unique answers: Security question answers do not need to be truthful -- use random answers stored in a password manager
• Check data breaches: Your information may already be available to attackers from past breaches
• Be cautious with location sharing: Real-time location can be used to impersonate you

4. Use a separate number for sensitive accounts

Consider using a Google Voice number or similar service for account recovery. These numbers:

• Cannot be SIM swapped (they are not tied to a physical SIM)
• Are protected by your Google account security
• Can still receive SMS verification codes
• Separate your public contact from your security-critical accounts

5. Monitor your accounts proactively

• Enable login alerts: Get notified of new sign-ins to your accounts
• Check account activity regularly: Review recent sessions in Google, Facebook, etc.
• Set up carrier alerts: Some carriers can notify you of account changes

What to do if you are SIM swapped

If you suspect a SIM swap is happening or has happened:

• Contact your carrier immediately: Use a different phone or landline, or visit a store in person with ID
• Request emergency account freeze: Stop any further changes
• Change passwords: Update all important accounts, starting with email
• Contact affected platforms: Report the compromise to YouTube, Instagram, etc.
• File a police report: SIM swapping is illegal -- documentation helps with account recovery
• Alert your bank: Financial accounts may be at risk

The bigger picture: layered security

SIM swap protection is just one layer of creator security. Even with perfect phone security, attackers can still use other methods like session token theft or phishing. Build multiple layers:

Your SIM swap protection checklist

Complete these steps today:

• Call your carrier and add an account PIN or port protection
• Switch from SMS 2FA to authenticator apps on all accounts
• Remove your phone number from public profiles where possible
• Use random answers for security questions (store them in a password manager)
• Consider a Google Voice number for sensitive account recovery
• Enable login alerts on all important accounts
• Review your accounts for any signs of unauthorized access