Phone carrier PIN text scam (SIM swap)
Scammers text pretending to be your phone carrier, saying someone is moving your number to a new device. They ask for your account PIN and a code to "cancel" it, which is exactly what they need to steal your number.
How this scam works
With your number, scammers receive your bank and email codes, then break into your accounts.
Common versions of the message
- A number transfer alert
- A request for your account PIN
- A code to read back
What the message looks like
Text from +1 (555) 012-0055
T-Mobile Alert: A request to transfer your number to a new device was received. If this was not you, reply with your account PIN and the verification code we just sent within 10 minutes to cancel it.
Fictional example based on common, publicly reported scam patterns.
The red flags
- 1
Scary alert: “transfer your number to a new device”
Made to make you rush
The scary alert is meant to make you rush.
- 2
Asks for your PIN: “reply with your account PIN”
Your carrier never asks for your PIN by text
Your carrier will not ask for your account PIN by text.
- 3
Code request: “the verification code we just sent”
The code lets them steal your number
Sharing the code lets them take over your number.
What to do
- Do not reply with your PIN or any code.
- Call your carrier using the number on its official website or your bill.
- Ask your carrier to turn on port-out protection or number lock.
If you already replied, clicked, or paid
- If your phone suddenly loses service, call your carrier from another phone right away.
- Change passwords for your email and bank, starting with email.
- Switch account security from text codes to an authenticator app where you can.
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