HOW HACKER BYPASS 2FA (OTP) USING SIM SWAP METHOD

 

SIM swap attacks occur when a hacker tricks a mobile carrier into transferring a victim's phone number to a new SIM card controlled by the attacker. This process allows the attacker to receive OTPs (One-Time Passwords) and other communications meant for the victim. Here’s how this typically happens:

1. **Gathering Information**: The attacker collects personal information about the victim. This can be done through social engineering, phishing, or data breaches. They might need information such as the victim's full name, phone number, address, and sometimes even account numbers or answers to security questions.

2. **Contacting the Mobile Carrier**: The attacker contacts the victim's mobile carrier, posing as the victim. They may use social engineering tactics or forged documents to convince the carrier’s customer service that they are the legitimate owner of the phone number.

3. **Requesting a SIM Swap**: The attacker requests to swap the phone number to a new SIM card. This request may be made in person, over the phone, or through the carrier’s online system.

4. **Carrier Verification**: The carrier may perform some form of verification to ensure the request is legitimate. However, if the attacker has enough information, they might pass this verification step.

5. **SIM Swap Completion**: Once the SIM swap is approved, the victim's phone number is transferred to the attacker’s SIM card. The victim’s phone will lose signal and may display an error message.

6. **Accessing OTPs**: With the victim’s phone number now on the attacker’s SIM card, the attacker can receive OTPs and other SMS-based authentication codes sent to the victim’s number.

7. **Exploiting Accounts**: The attacker uses the OTPs to access the victim's accounts, such as email, bank accounts, and other services that use SMS-based 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication).

**Preventive Measures**:

- **Use App-Based Authentication**: Where possible, use authentication apps (like Google Authenticator or Authy) instead of SMS-based 2FA.

- **Enable Additional Security**: Use a PIN or password to protect your mobile account and set up additional security measures with your carrier.

- **Monitor Accounts**: Regularly monitor financial and online accounts for unauthorized activities.

- **Educate Yourself**: Be aware of social engineering tactics and safeguard personal information.

Mobile carriers are improving their security measures to combat SIM swap attacks, but staying vigilant and using strong security practices can help protect against these types of threats.