Scam library
Phone number takeover
Someone tricks you or your carrier into moving your phone number to a device they control.
What it looks like
Fictional example: Your mobile service needs an urgent upgrade. Read us the activation code to keep your number.
Fictional example: Disable your number lock and send the transfer PIN so we can fix your connection.
How it works
A scammer obtains carrier account details or deceives the carrier into transferring your number. Calls and text codes can then reach the scammer's device. They may use those codes to reset passwords and access other accounts.
Warning signs
- Someone requests a number-transfer PIN or activation code.
- An unsolicited caller asks you to disable number protection.
- Your phone suddenly loses service alongside unexpected account changes.
- You receive an activation notice for a device you did not request.
If you got one of these
- Contact your carrier immediately through its official app, website, or a separate phone.
- Ask the carrier to check for unauthorized SIM changes or number transfers.
- Enable carrier account protections and set a unique account PIN.
- Use passkeys or an authenticator for important accounts where available.
If you already paid or shared something
- Tell your carrier and bank fraud line that your phone number may have been taken over.
- Recover your email and financial accounts from a clean device and remove unfamiliar sessions.
- Dispute unauthorized transactions promptly and preserve records for ic3.gov.
Who gets targeted
Anyone whose accounts rely on text messages for sign-in or recovery.
Protect yourself: The Ten-Minute Kit