How easily Can eSIM be Hacked?

This is a common question asked when mobile users are considering making the switch. Convenience and flexibility to manage several mobile plans make it easy to see why eSIMs are fast becoming more popular than their traditional counterparts.

Answering the question: “Can eSIM be hacked?” It’s crucial to point out that eSIMs can still be hacked. This process is considerably harder than with a traditional physical SIM card.

eSIM eliminates the need for a removable SIM card. It also provides travellers with an additional layer of protection for their mobile devices. Explore our regional eSIM plans for travellers to find the best option.

What is an eSIM Technology: Everything You Need to Know

Are you wondering, “What is eSIM technology?” eSIM is an abbreviated term for “embedded subscriber identity module” and refers to a digital SIM card that’s built directly into a device. This innovative technology allows you to use a mobile plan without requiring a conventional SIM card.

You will therefore not have to purchase and insert a physical SIM card into the phone, tablet, computer, or smartwatch. This is convenient when you’re travelling since there’s no need to find a local network provider to connect to.

Benefits:

• Can be used on multiple devices*, but installed on one device at a time
• Save on CO2 and plastic waste
• Safer than conventional SIM cards
• Allows you to change mobile network providers without having to insert, remove, or change a physical card
• Unlike traditional SIM cards, there is no risk of loss or damage

*Important to remember: eSIMs can only stay installed on one device at a time. You can’t use the same eSIM on Device A and Device B at the same time. You need to delete it on device A and install it on device B.

Many modern iPhone and Android models boast eSIM compatibility. View our comprehensive list of eSIM-compatible devices to help you identify if you can make the switch to an eSIM card.

Key Features of eSIM Technology

eSIM technology is becoming well-known among personal and business account users for its many advanced key features. The most common of these include:

• Remote provisioning and easy activation via QR code
• No physical SIM swapping or eSIM cloning—fully embedded technology ensures fewer sim swap attacks
• Compatibility with multiple devices and mobile carriers
• Security aspects: better security thanks to digital profiles
• Longer life and less impact on the environment than traditional SIMs

Use our website to learn more about activating an eSIM on your device. This simple procedure will take you one step closer to a safer SIM.

How eSIM Security Works

How secure is eSIM? Despite its growing popularity, many users have eSIM privacy concerns. Fortunately, eSIM protection is enhanced by its inherently embedded nature. By eliminating the traditional physical component, eSIM can combine advanced encryption and two factor authentication processes. This is an added step in your device’s security software.

These make it difficult for hackers to access your SIM card. Some mobile network operators have included additional verification steps. Hackers won’t be able to easily bypass two factor authentication, which goes a long way towards deterring unauthorised access.

eSIM Security Risks Compared to Physical SIM Card

Despite these strong security measures, there are hacking eSIM risks that you should be aware of, such as:

• Unauthorised network access: While not common, there are hacking attempts of getting unauthorised access to the network, where they would then access your eSIM profile.
• Data interception: Hackers can intercept your private data by using phishing attacks and malware to steal your credentials.
• eSIM profile swapping: If a hacker gains access to your phone or your eSIM profile, they could impersonate you and use your eSIM profile to access your personal data. You will then be unaware that your private information has been used. This is often referred to as sim swap attacks.

Common Myths About eSIM Security

Misconceptions about eSIM safety are widespread. Here are a few of the more common ones you may have heard.

1. eSIMs are Easily Hackable
   eSIMs are not completely hacker-proof, but it is considerably harder to access. Its encryption and verification features, such as fingerprint or face scan, give the device and the eSIM a more secure element and protect access to your online accounts.
2. Traditional SIMs are Safer
   Conventional SIMs are simple to remove from devices. This puts phones and tablets at higher risk during travel. Credit Bureau experts at Experian have reported that SIM swaps were the top cyber threat in 2024. Hackers simply hack into the carrier and access your SIM.
   Once they perform a SIM swap, they will gain control of your profile. SIM swap attacks are used to access the text messages that reveal your OTPs (one-time pins) which are geared at preventing financial fraud. Having access to your SIM can lead to extensive identity theft.
3. eSIMs Drain Your Device Battery
   Since the eSIM is a built-in feature that gets activated, people often believe it adds to your phone’s battery usage. eSIMs do not use more battery than a physical SIM card. Regular use of one eSIM won’t negatively affect your battery.
4. eSIMs Can be Easily Tracked
   Many believe that eSIMs can be easily tracked because of their digital component. Fortunately, users have control over whether they grant permission to an external app to access their location.

eSIM vs. SIM Card: Which Is More Secure

While both eSIMs and traditional SIMs have their risks, eSIMs are considerably less risky. This is primarily due to the absence of physical swapping and the decreased likelihood of remote access. Encryption can be enhanced by speaking to your carrier about additional verification.

Stay Smart, Stay Secure: eSIM Safety Tips

Keeping your devices secure is an important aspect of eSIM safety. Remotely disabling your eSIM, adding the latest security patches, and requesting verification from an operator before changing your profile are just a few ways to ensure eSIM safety. Stay protected by using trusted providers such as Esimatic, where the safety of your sensitive data and personal information is paramount. We’ll ensure that your eSIM is always safe!