What it looks like
"Hello, I am calling from your network provider. To upgrade your SIM to 5G, please send the SMS I tell you and switch off your phone for two hours." (Illustrative)
How the sim swap otp scam works
- The criminal gathers your name, number, ID details and bank details through phishing, data leaks or social media.
- They call pretending to be your mobile operator, offering a SIM upgrade or warning of a blocked SIM, and ask you to send an SMS or share a code.
- Or they go to a store with fake documents to request a replacement SIM.
- Your phone loses network as your number moves to their SIM.
- They receive your OTPs and reset passwords for your bank, UPI and email, then move money out.
Red flags
- Sudden 'No service' or 'Emergency calls only' that lasts a long time
- A call offering a SIM upgrade (e.g. 4G to 5G) that needs you to send an SMS
- Being asked to keep your phone switched off
- Alerts that your SIM was replaced when you did not request it
- Unexpected password reset or login emails
What to do
- If you lose network unexpectedly, contact your mobile operator from another phone at once and block the SIM.
- Call your bank to freeze accounts and cards.
- Report at once: call 1930 (National Cyber Fraud Helpline) or file at cybercrime.gov.in. Speed matters, because reports help freeze money in transit.
- Change passwords for email and banking from a safe device, and turn on stronger login protection where possible.
- Report fraud calls on Sanchar Saathi's Chakshu facility, and check connections in your name on Sanchar Saathi.
Protect your family
Tell elders that mobile companies never ask them to send an SMS or switch off their phone to upgrade a SIM. Keep account details and ID copies off social media.
Also known as: SIM swap fraud, SIM cloning scam, duplicate SIM fraud
Questions people ask
How do I know if my SIM has been swapped?
Your phone suddenly shows no network for a long time, and you may get a message about a SIM change you did not request. Contact your operator from another phone right away.
Can my operator upgrade my SIM to 5G by SMS?
Do not trust unsolicited calls asking you to send an SMS or switch off your phone. Visit an official store or use the operator's official app.
How can I check how many SIMs are in my name in India?
Use the Sanchar Saathi portal of the Department of Telecommunications to see and report mobile connections registered in your name.