Government issues alert on rising eSIM scam threat, know what it is here

The Indian government has issued a warning to mobile users about a new cyber fraud involving eSIM technology. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has cautioned that fraudsters can gain control over a victim’s mobile number and siphon money from bank accounts without requiring OTPs or ATM details.

How the scam works

According to I4C, fraudsters first call the target and persuade them to click on a malicious link claiming to activate an eSIM. Once the user follows the instructions, their physical SIM card gets deactivated and the phone loses network connectivity. The number is then diverted to an eSIM controlled by the scammer. As a result, calls and SMS alerts meant for the victim are received by the fraudster, giving them access to sensitive banking information and enabling financial theft.

Also read: Bengaluru: Elderly woman loses Rs 1.2 crore in massive cyber scam

Precautionary measures

Authorities have urged citizens not to trust unknown callers or suspicious links. Users are advised to convert to eSIM only through official telecom company apps or websites. If network signals suddenly vanish, one should immediately inform both their bank and mobile service provider to prevent misuse.

Rising concern

The I4C, established in January 2020 to combat cybercrime, has noted a surge in digital fraud alongside the rapid growth of online transactions and smartphone usage. With scams becoming increasingly sophisticated, the government is emphasizing public awareness to counter the expanding threat of eSIM fraud.