Residents urged to stay alert as SIM swap fraud cases rise
An increase in reported SIM swap fraud incidents has prompted a warning for residents to remain vigilant and act quickly if they suddenly lose mobile network service.
An increase in reported SIM swap fraud incidents over the past two weeks has prompted authorities to warn residents to stay alert for signs that their cellphone number may have been compromised.
According to the Gauteng Provincial Joint Operational Centre, one of the biggest warning signs is a cellphone suddenly losing mobile signal without explanation, even when it remains connected to Wi-Fi.
This could indicate that criminals have fraudulently transferred the victim’s cellphone number to another SIM card.
SIM swap fraud happens when criminals convince a mobile network provider to move a victim’s cellphone number to a SIM card under their control.
They often use stolen personal information or social engineering to carry out the scam.
Once successful, fraudsters can intercept one-time PINs (OTPs) sent by SMS, allowing them to access WhatsApp accounts, online banking, email accounts and other services. Victims may suffer financial losses, identity theft or have their messaging accounts used to scam family and friends.
Residents who suspect they have fallen victim to a SIM swap should act immediately by:
• Contacting their mobile network provider from another phone to confirm whether a SIM swap has been processed.
• Notifying their bank if their cellphone number is linked to their banking profile.
• Enabling two-step verification on WhatsApp and other important online accounts.
• Monitoring their bank and online accounts for suspicious activity.
Authorities also encourage residents to use strong, unique passwords, avoid sharing personal information over unsolicited calls or messages and regularly check that the correct cellphone number is linked to important accounts.
Residents are urged to speak to elderly family members about the warning signs, as they are often targeted by scammers.
Anyone who receives this or other suspected scam-related information can report suspicious activity to their mobile network provider, their bank, or the South African Police Service.
Residents can also report incidents at their nearest police station if they believe they have been targeted.
The Gauteng Police Board also encourages the public to share only verified safety alerts and report official information through its WhatsApp line on 072 069 8582.
