eSIM Scam in India: I4C Warns Mobile Users About Rising Fraud – How to Stay Safe

The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), a wing of the Ministry of Home Affairs, issued a strong warning to mobile users about the rapid increase in eSIM fraud in India. eSIM technology is rapidly growing in recent years. From premium smartphones to everyday devices, mobile users are shifting to embedded SIMs (eSIMs) due to their convenience, in which no physical card is required, instant activation, and easy switching between networks are done. 

However, this convenience has new vulnerabilities as well. The Fraudsters are taking advantage of eSIM technology to hijack mobile numbers, intercept OTPs, and steal money from unsuspecting victims.

This blog explains the rising eSIM scam in India, why it is dangerous, real-world examples, and most importantly how you can protect yourself with the right eSIM safety tips and cyber fraud awareness practices.

How the eSIM Scam Works

The eSIM scam in India starts with social engineering. The fraudsters pose themselves as telecom operators and send fake messages, emails, or calls claiming that your SIM card needs to be upgraded or converted into an eSIM. These communications include links or instructions that look official but following them leads to getting in a trap.

Once you click the link or share your critical information, the fraudster initiates an unauthorized eSIM activation. The original physical SIM card gets deactivated, and the number is silently transferred to a device which is controlled by the criminal. From that moment, the fraudster has overall control over your calls, SMS and most importantly the OTP fraud in banking. 

This way of hijacking the mobile number bypasses the traditional safeguards and allows attackers to reset passwords, authorize fund transfers, and lock victims out of their accounts.

Why the eSIM Scam is Dangerous

Unlike many other scams that require much effort, SIM swap fraud and eSIM hijacking takes just few minutes. Victims often realize the fraud only when they suddenly lose network connectivity or when the fraudsters have already made the transactions. 

The telecom eSIM security loopholes make this scam particularly effective:

• OTPs for UPI transactions, net banking logins, and credit card verifications are diverted to the fraudster.
• Even users who have disabled UPI or ATM services are vulnerable because attackers can still reset account credentials.
• The scam is low-effort for criminals as there is no need to physically access a SIM card or bribe insiders, everything just happens digitally.

The most dangerous financial sector cyber threats occur due to speed, stealth, and access, by making the eSIM scam in India.

Real-Life Scenarios Highlighting the Risk of eSIM Scam

The seriousness of the threat is not just theoretical but it’s already causing real financial damage.

• In Ghaziabad, a woman lost ₹18.5 lakh after fraudsters deactivated her SIM and activated an eSIM in their device. They have also gained access to her OTPs and drained her bank accounts.
• In another reported case, a victim had lost ₹4 lakh even though her UPI and ATM services were disabled. The attackers had used the hijacked eSIM to bypass restrictions by resetting her net banking credentials.

These cases prove that cyberattack prevention in banking must go beyond disabling services. Fraudsters are constantly innovating, and users must remain vigilant.

I4C’s Key Warnings

To tackle the growing eSIM scam in India, the I4C has issued clear cyber fraud awareness guidelines: To tackle the growing eSIM scam in India, the I4C has issued clear cyber fraud awareness guidelines: 

• Never click on unsolicited eSIM activation links sent through SMS or email.
• Do not share OTPs or personal details with callers claiming to be from telecom operators.
• Be alert to a sudden loss of the network. If your SIM stops working without reason, it could mean your number has been hijacked.
• Verify directly with telecom providers through official apps, websites, or physical stores.

These warnings are intended to empower mobile users with knowledge and reduce the chances of falling victim to fraud.

How to Protect Yourself from eSIM Fraud

You can safeguard yourself against eSIM fraud by following these practical eSIM safety tips:

• Verify all Requests
  Initiate eSIM migration only via official channels such as your telecom operator’s app or store.
• Enable Real-Time Transaction Alerts
  Get notifications on email and apps in addition to SMS. This provides a backup if your number is hijacked.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication
  Wherever possible, use app-based authentication like Google Authenticator instead of SMS OTPs.
• Check Unusual Phone Behavior
  If your network suddenly disappears, contact your telecom operator immediately.
• Act Fast if Compromised
  Block your eSIM through the telecom provider, inform your bank, and report the incident.

By staying alert, you can outsmart fraudsters and take control of your digital security.