Outlook Business Desk
The Indian government has warned mobile users about a sophisticated eSIM scam that allows fraudsters to steal money from accounts without needing OTPs or ATM details, making it a serious digital threat.
A recent case saw a victim lose ₹4 lakh after scammers hijacked their mobile number. They contact victims through calls or messages pretending to be telecom service providers and send fake eSIM activation links via SMS or email, tricking users into transferring their number to the fraudster’s device.
Once the victim clicks the link, their physical SIM deactivates and the number transfers to the scammer. All calls, messages, and OTPs will go directly to the fraudster, enabling quick financial theft.
With the hijacked number, attackers can reset passwords, approve transactions, and drain bank accounts. Even users who have disabled UPI or ATM access remain vulnerable once their number is compromised.
The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), established in January 2020 by the Ministry of Home Affairs, advises citizens to always watch out for unknown callers and suspicious links.
Never rely on a third party to convert your SIM—request eSIM conversion only through trusted official channels. If your phone loses network signal, immediately contact your bank and mobile provider to report the issue.
Physical SIMs can still be targeted by fraud, but eSIM attacks happen faster since no store visit or chip swap is needed. Many users feel safer with physical SIMs, though the real risk comes from social manipulation, not the SIM itself.