Scams: How to avoid ‘Sim swapping’ in France

A technique whereby hackers clone a SIM card in order to access victims' personal data and bank accounts, called ‘SIM swapping’ is on the rise in France, with police calling for vigilance. Here is what you need to know to stay safe.

The use of mobile phones to verify people’s identity for purchases and banking has opened a lucrative way for scammers to steal money while remaining undetected.

The technique involves criminals contacting mobile phone operators posing as the victim and requesting a new SIM card.

This allows them to receive authentication codes sent by SMS, enabling them to make online purchases, transfer money or even open bank accounts. 

Piracy can also occur after a phone has been repaired, if the SIM card was left in the device, or following theft.

Growth of scam in France

The technique, which emerged in the United States in 2019, made headlines in France in December 2023 when Paris police arrested three hackers, who were initially suspected of defrauding around €64,000 from a dozen victims.

However, the police investigation revealed that the hacker group was responsible for the theft of around €600,000 between 2022 and 2023. 

They also found that the group was led by a 31-year-old man who was already in prison, having been found guilty of fraud by SIM swapping in November 2022.

Following the arrests, the head of France’s Brigade des fraudes aux moyens de paiement (payment fraud brigade) told French media that SIM swapping was particularly “effective” and difficult to detect.

“Today taking control of a telephone means taking control of a bank account,” Vincent Kozierow told franceinfo.

“The principle of double authentication means that all online purchases are verified by telephone. So from the moment they have access to this they can make purchases.”

“This type of scam is still not particularly widespread, but it has been growing in recent months,” said Mr Kozierow. 

Read more: How to check if your email was stolen in mass French data leaks

How can I protect myself from SIM swapping?

To limit the risks, people are advised to adopt secure digital practices, such as replacing double authentication SMS messages with dedicated applications, which are available through certain banks. 

It is also recommended to remove SIM cards before taking a phone to a repair shop and to monitor bank statements regularly.

If you suspect fraud, contact your operator immediately to deactivate the pirated card before reactivating the line. Inform your bank to block any fraudulent transactions and file a complaint with the police.