Stay persistent, don't abandon hope
"In Russia, it's time to say goodbye to pesky SIM card fraud!"
Are you tired of those sneaky fraudsters nabbing SIM cards in your name using your stolen passport data? Well, you're in luck! As announced by State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin, starting September 1st, you'll be able to block the issuance of SIM cards under your name via the "Gosuslugi" portal or MFC. And if that's not enough, Russia already limits the number of SIM cards issued to one person to no more than 20 since April 1st.
But that's just the beginning, according to Sergei Villianov, the main editor of Vilianov.com. This change is necessary, he says, and those who have ever dealt with a counterfeit SIM card registered in their name will understand why. In today's world, SIM cards aren't just for mobile communication anymore – they're also essential for security systems, internet access on your dacha, and more. Therefore, it's crucial to separate the mobile number, mobile contract, and SIM card.
You might think that's it, but it seems that legislative measures are not the only solution. Blogger Wylsacom Valentin Petukhov believes that educational work with users is also necessary to ensure they know how to protect themselves from SIM-related scams. After the limit of 20 SIM cards per person was introduced, about 16 million numbers were blocked in just one week in early April. New restrictions will soon be needed, but the struggle between lock manufacturers and hackers is an ongoing process, Petukhov warns.
And what about loans? Starting March, Russia enabled individuals to self-impose a ban on receiving loans and credits. Almost 8 million Russians utilized this option within the first month, according to the "United Credit Bureau".
So, stay tuned, and keep one step ahead of those fraudsters! To help you do just that, here are some additional strategies to combat SIM card fraud:
- Use app-generated codes for advanced two-factor authentication instead of SMS-based 2FA. Services like Google Authenticator or Authy can generate these codes.
- Opt for SIM protection services offered by mobile carriers, which restrict unauthorized transfers of mobile numbers to other SIM cards.
- Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts and consider using password managers. Install reliable antivirus software to block phishing and malware threats.
- Reach out to your mobile operator and ask them to add additional security measures, such as requiring a special code for remote interactions.
But that's not all! Consider embracing the concept of introducing semi-fully-fledged SIM cards. These cards can offer enhanced security and customizable functionality, potentially reducing the risk of SIM swap fraud. However, it's important to weigh the potential challenges, including technical complexity, compatibility issues, and user adoption.
Stay safe and stay vigilant! The fight against fraudsters is a continuous battle, and it's up to us to stay one step ahead.
- Despite legislative measures being implemented in Russia, educational work with users is necessary to help them protect themselves from SIM-related scams, as mentioned by blogger Wylsacom Valentin Petukhov.
- The technology industry is witnessing an increasing trend towards the use of app-generated codes for advanced two-factor authentication, as an alternative to SMS-based 2FA, to combat SIM card fraud.
- In order to prevent unauthorized transfers of mobile numbers to other SIM cards, mobile carriers offer SIM protection services, which are recommended for added security.
- Fraudsters have been known to use stolen passport data to nab SIM cards in someone's name, but with the implementation of measures like the Gosuslugi portal and MFC, it's possible for individuals to block the issuance of SIM cards under their name, as announced by State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin.
