FCC adopts new rules to protect consumers from SIM-swapping attacks
bleepingcomputer.com – Sergiu Gatlan
The FCC has announced new rules designed to protect consumers from SIM swapping attacks and port-out fraud, which expose individuals to significant financial losses, identity theft, and unauthorized access to personal accounts and sensitive information.
These scams involve criminals tricking wireless carriers into redirecting service to a device they control or transferring a victim’s phone number to another provider without authorization.
To address these issues, the FCC’s updated regulations require wireless service providers to implement secure authentication processes before transferring phone numbers.
They also must promptly alert customers whenever a SIM change or port-out request occurs, aiming to provide greater control and notification to subscribers.
The move responds to a rise in consumer complaints and FBI warnings about the escalation of such attacks, as evidenced by an increasing number of complaints and significant financial losses reported over the past few years.
Link: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/fcc-adopts-new-rules-to-protect-consumers-from-sim-swapping-attacks/