Beware! eSIM Frauds in India Make Your Phone an Easy Target for Hackers

The Indian government has raised a red flag over the rising threat of eSIM-related frauds, cautioning mobile users about the risks of hijacking attacks. The cybercrime unit, Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), recently highlighted a case where scammers managed to drain money from a victim’s bank account-all by exploiting their phone number.

How Scammers Exploit eSIM Technology

At the core of this fraud is a simple trick: the victim’s mobile number. Fraudsters first place a call to the user and then send an eSIM activation request. If the unsuspecting person accepts it, the fraudsters gain full control of the victim’s phone services.

• The original SIM card loses network access.

• Calls and text messages, including bank OTPs, get redirected to the eSIM profile under the scammer’s control.

• With OTPs in hand, cybercriminals can withdraw money via ATM or UPI transactions, without raising immediate suspicion.

This invisible takeover makes the scam far more dangerous than traditional SIM-swap frauds.

Why eSIM Frauds Are a Growing Concern

Unlike physical SIMs, where loss or theft is noticeable, eSIM attacks are stealthy. Victims often don’t realize what has happened until their bank balance takes a hit. With digital payments booming in India, such scams pose a major risk to financial security.

What the Government Advises

The I4C has urged smartphone users to be extra cautious and shared a few safety measures to minimize risks:

• Do not answer unknown calls or reply to suspicious messages.

• Avoid clicking on unverified links sent via SMS or WhatsApp.

• Only activate eSIMs through authorized retail outlets.

• If your phone suddenly loses network connectivity, immediately alert your bank to block potential transactions.

These small steps can make a big difference in preventing financial losses.

Who Is at Risk in India?

For now, eSIM adoption in India is still limited, mostly restricted to premium devices such as Apple iPhones and Google Pixel phones. However, as the technology becomes more common, so will the risks.

This makes it crucial for users of eSIM-enabled smartphones to stay alert, understand how the technology works, and ensure that no fraudulent activation requests slip through.

eSIM technology offers convenience, but it also opens the door to new kinds of cybercrime. Scammers don’t need your physical SIM anymore-just your trust. By staying cautious, verifying activation requests, and reacting quickly to network disruptions, you can safeguard both your phone and your money.

Remember: in the digital world, awareness is your strongest defense.