What is the Role of Phone Numbers in Identity Theft?

Cybercriminals are exploiting phone numbers as entry points for identity theft. From crossing security protocols to SIM swap attacks, the misuse of phone numbers is increasing. You must know how vulnerable your phone number is and must protect it to prevent identity theft and other cyber crimes.

3 Critical Roles of Phone Numbers in Identity Theft

Phone numbers have become attractive targets and valuable assets for identity thieves. Here’s what cybercriminals do with your phone number:

1. Authentication and Account Recovery 

Many online services use phone numbers for two-factor authentication (2FA), password recovery, and account verification. If a malicious actor gains control of your phone number, they can intercept verification codes or reset credentials, enjoying unauthorized access to sensitive accounts.

2. Social Engineering Vector

With just a phone number, attackers can launch phishing campaigns, impersonate trusted organizations, or gather additional personal details through voice phishing. Phone numbers are often linked to publicly available information, which can be used for scams.

3. SIM Swapping and Number Hijacking

SIM swapping can convince a mobile carrier to transfer a victim’s number to a SIM card controlled by the attacker. Once successful, the criminal can receive all calls and texts, bypass 2FA mechanisms, and reset access to financial accounts or social media platforms.

How to Safeguard Phone Number Information?

Identity thieves will always find ways to find your essential data and use it for malicious purposes. Here are some practical tips you must follow to keep your Phone Number info safe:

1. Be Selective About Sharing Your Number

Never share your number unless it is very important. Avoid filling out forms such as surveys or signing up for non-essential services. Also, read and understand the policies of companies that require your data.

2. Use a Secondary Phone Number

Try to get a virtual phone service (e.g., Google Voice, Burner, Hushed, or Sideline) if you really need to provide a phone number to any service.

3. Enable Security Features on Your Phone

Use device protection so that your number is safe if your phone is stolen. You can enable "Find My Phone" (iOS) or "Find My Device" (Android). Keep your phone's software and apps updated.

4. Manage Calls and Messages

Try not to answer unknown phone calls or respond to shaky messages. Instead, block unknown callers through a built-in feature on your phone or through apps.

5. Protect Your Accounts

You can also set a PIN or passcode on your mobile carrier account. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) whenever possible. Try to create strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts.

6. Be Cautious Online

Use privacy-focused browsers,  and only download apps from official app stores (Google Play Store, Apple App Store). It is also important to review app permissions before installing any application.

7. Report Spam and Scams

Report spam messages to the authorities, such as phone carriers or, in extreme cases, law enforcement.

8. Remove Your Number from Public Listings

Remove your phone number from social media profiles and other search websites to reduce your vulnerability to spam callers.

9. Secure Your Voicemail

Keep a strong PIN for your voicemail to prevent unauthorized access, and also check for any suspicious activity.

How to Protect Your Phone Number from Being Used in Identity Theft?

Your PII, including phone number, SSN, credit card details, and more, can be shared and sold on the dark web, leading to multiple exploitations.

You must protect your data and keep track of where it is shared. Here’s what to do:

1. Sign up for PureMax.
2. Download and install the PureVPN app.
3. Log in to your account and select Dark Web Monitoring.

4. Select Add Assets to Monitor and add your email address, SSN/NIN, credit card number, passport number, and phone number.
5. Enter the code sent to your registered number, and you’re done.

6. Follow the recommended measures if your data is part of a breach to prevent further misuse.

Wrap Up

Protecting your data is no longer optional; it is essential. With PureVPN’s Dark Web Monitoring, you can proactively track, monitor, and protect your information. Stay informed about where your data is being shared without your consent and take action before threats escalate.