Published on: Sept 01, 2025 06:17 pm IST
ESIM scams are increasing in India, with a kidnapping number to the fraudsters to steal money using fake activation links. Learn how these scams work and security tips.
Cyber ​​criminals in India are now exploiting ESIMS, digital sims stored on your phone, hijack the phone numbers and drain the bank accounts within minutes. Recently, a victim was seen losing in a case After scammers, 4 lakhs controlled their number and stopped the OTP.
How scam comes out
- It begins with a solid call or SMS that claims to be from your mobile provider. Scammers then send a fake ESIM activation link, usually via SMS or email.
- Once clicking, your physical sim becomes inactive, loses your phone signal, and your number switchs to the scammer device. Every call, message and OTP now go straight to them.
- With OTP in hand, they can approve the transaction, reset your password, and take money without the need for a physical card or password.
Why does it work; And why it’s dangerous
The ESIM technique was designed for convenience, but the same flexibility provides the attackers a sharp way in your digital identity and finance. Even users who have disabled UPI or ATM services are not safe after the number is compromised.
Quick security tips
|
What can you do |
why it matters |
| Undes ignoring unknown link | Use only your provider’s app or site while managing your ESIM. |
| Never share OTP or personal information | Banks or Telcoses will never ask for sensitive information on calls or SMS. |
| Sudden signs monitor loss | If calls or data unexpectedly drop, act immediately. |
| Freeze your number if needed | Contact your provider and bank immediately if there is suspicion of kidnapping. |
Is the physical SIM better than Asim?
not necessarily. A physical sim is not immune for fraud, either. Sim Swap scams have been present for years. The difference is that ESIM fraud can occur rapidly because it does not require a place of chip to the store or physically. He said, some users feel sticking to physical sims because telcoses usually seek in-tradition verification for swaps. Finally, weak links are social engineering, not sim
The Cyber ​​Crime Coordination Center (I4C) and other officials alarm are ringing. These scams move rapidly, the victims may lose sufficient amount in less than five minutes, explaining how significant vigilance has occurred in the digital age.
