A leading solution for travelers and freelancers, eSIM offers Internet and cell connection without a plastic SIM card in your device. A new technology, it uses modern ways of encryption and data protection. Plus, the absence of physical carriers makes it safer than SIM cards. However, the technology still causes worries among average users.

Customers worry about possible hacks and tracking. Let’s see if that’s true and whether someone can access your eSIM information. Plus, see the leading ways to protect your finances and data from cybercriminals.

What is eSIM, And How Does It Work?

eSIM is an online analog of a plastic SIM card in your device. Most smartphones, released after 2019, contain an embedded chip that can track and connect to cell data. With its help, you can activate data plans and make calls without a SIM card. 

eSIM is a popular solution for international travelers due to its price and wide choice of destinations, data plans, and Internet speed options. Yet, as a new technology, it caused concerns about safety and reliability. 

Can Someone Hack Your eSIM?

Despite all eSIM security measures, the eSIM can be hacked. Just like any other device, though. Cybercriminals use various schemes and networks to access your data: Wi-Fi in public places, unreliable VPN servers, or even physical theft of your SIM card. 

In the digital era, one cannot say about 100% protection. The task is to find a connection method that offers more security than others. In these terms, eSIM remains the best solution. Someone can simply steal and replace your plastic card. With eSIM, you’re protected with digital encryption and privacy. 

Security Measures, Used by eSIM

You don’t have to believe in a bare word. If you’re interested in how carriers protect your data, take a look at these measures: 

1. Cryptographic protocols. You receive and activate mobile data “by air” without any hardware. During this process, the eSIM carrier uses encryption. It codes your data, and only your device can decode it.
2. Secure Authentication. To prove your digital identity, you scan a QR code, use fingerprint/face recognition, or enter the code from SMS. These measures ensure only you can access the data plan. 
3. Safe hardware. The chip in your smartphone is protected itself. Your smartphone/tablet manufacturer used protective measures, so only your device can access the chip information. eSIM hack and tracking are possible, but risks are extremely low. 

No measures grant absolute protection, but eSIM security is much more powerful than traditional SIM. These measures are a new word in terms of cybersecurity. In case you’re not afraid to use a plastic card in your smartphone, you should not be afraid of embedded SIM all the more.

Know These Hacking Ways to Protect Yourself

There are several ways to hack and use your eSIM data. While most of them are connected with improper usage, some depend on the carrier’s protection and don’t depend on you. Forewarned is forearmed, though. Take a look at common tricks to protect yourself from hacks. 

Calls and Messages from “Support” Channels

Social engineering remains a popular way to steal your information. Why hack someone if a person can reveal the information themselves? Cybercriminals may call or text you and call themselves customer support. 

Remember that real support doesn’t ask about your eSIM password, login, personal information, and confirmation codes. The team already has this information. If you receive a suspicious call, address the eSIM carrier and warn about the situation. 

Phishing Attacks

Using fake links, hackers make you fill out fake forms and send sensitive information. To ensure you’re safe, use official applications of eSIM carriers from the App Store or Google Play. If you’re using a web version, look at the link. Is it correct? Aren’t some symbols replaced with the Cyrillic alphabet? If the link seems suspicious, don’t enter your data or click anything. Such an approach is often used to steal your bank card, e-wallet, and other payment solutions. 

Physical Access Over Your Device

Unfortunately, hackers can still access your smartphone, and eSIM with it. This may happen when you use public Wi-Fi or VPN. Avoiding these services fully is impossible, though. Instead, use two-factor authentication to protect your device from other users. Set a reliable password or confirm payment via fingerprint/face recognition. 

As you see, the risks are not connected with eSIM directly. All these are popular hacking methods, used to steal data, financial details, etc. 

Can Carriers and Third-Party Users Track Your eSIM?

Indeed, the technology is not anonymous. At least, your provider needs to connect you to cell data in different countries, track the data usage, and switch between networks while you travel. Expecting eSIM to be fully confidential is impossible. Be ready that the carrier knows your location and the way you use data – but not your browser’s and call history. 

Problems appear when hackers access the same data. It doesn’t depend on you. Hacks are possible through plastic SIM cards, VPN servers, GPS services, Wi-Fi sports, and almost any network. What you should understand is that risks are equal, and any person online can be tracked. Whether you choose traditional SIM or eSIM, risks are equal. 

Is eSIM Safe: Pros and Cons Compared to Alternatives

Shortly, eSIM is perfectly protected in technological terms. The carriers use encryption and the best servers to save your data from third parties. Plus, you don’t have a plastic card that can be simply stolen. 

The only pitfall lies in customer independence. Upon installing and using eSIM, you may become a victim of phishing attacks and mistakes. To protect yourself from these threats, master your digital literacy and be connected with customer support. If you see any suspicious requests, better address the assistant and make sure everything’s all right. 

Bottom Line About Your Security While Using eSIM

As with any technology, eSIM can be hacked. Yet, in most cases, it happens because of users’ mistakes, not technology errors. Compared to traditional SIM cards, eSIM is way more protected. Avoid a physical carrier, it needs only digital protection, which is more than possible. Choose eSIM plans from reliable providers that use the best SSL encryption. Follow the tips for your personal safety and don’t trust suspicious users. Under such conditions, your eSIM finances and personal information are safe.