Stop scammers — how to prevent SIM card reissues with Kyivstar, Vodafone, and lifecell

Ukrainians have been advised to block the option to remotely reissue their SIM cards to protect themselves from scammers. This became especially relevant after fraudsters managed to reissue a SIM card belonging to a resident of Kryvyi Rih and take out a loan in his name. Scammers can transfer someone else’s number to another SIM card or eSIM to intercept SMS codes and gain access to bank accounts and other services. There is a separate method of protection for each of Ukraine’s three mobile operators.

According to the BRAMA Telegram channel,

Kyivstar subscribers should dial *245*1# to block self-service SIM card replacement. To check the blocking status, dial *245*3#.

Vodafone customers are advised to contact the operator and ask to activate the “Remote SIM Card Replacement Restriction” service.

lifecell subscribers are advised to call 5433 and ask to block remote replacement of their SIM or eSIM.

The channel also advised registering the number using your own passport details and checking with the operator which SIM replacement methods will remain available after the block is activated.

“Your number is the key to many accounts. Protect it from being reissued,” reads a post on the BRAMA Telegram channel. Why scammers target SIM cards in particular

SIM card replacement gives criminals access to SMS verification codes that banks and services use to sign in to accounts or confirm transactions. Once they gain control of a number, scammers can reset passwords, access banking apps, and take out loans in the victim’s name without their knowledge.