Preventing SIM Swap Attacks with Virtual Numbers

On January 22, 2024, The X (formerly Twitter) account of the US SEC (Security and Exchange Commission) was taken over using a SIM swap attack [Engadget].

If only they had been using a Virtual Number from Tossable Digits.

In an age where digital communication is paramount, protecting our personal information from cyber threats has become more critical than ever. One such threat that has gained prominence in recent years is the SIM swap attack, a method used by hackers to take control of your mobile phone number. Tossable Digits, a leading virtual phone number service, has implemented robust measures to prevent SIM swap attacks, unauthorized port outs, and ensure the security of your identity.

Understanding SIM Swap Attacks

SIM swap attacks involve fraudulently transferring a user’s mobile phone number to a new SIM card controlled by the attacker. Once the attacker gains control of the phone number, they can reset passwords, access two-factor authentication codes, and potentially compromise various accounts linked to that number. This type of attack poses a significant risk to individuals and businesses alike.

Stopping SIM Attacks: Eliminate the SIM!

Virtual Phone Numbers have no wireless network. Phone Numbers exist in the cloud, with no physical hardware needed. Because of this, there is NO SIM to attack or swap! Using a Virtual Phone Number to secure your accounts avoids the SIM swap attack entirely.

Enhanced Account Security with Two-Factor Authentication

Tossable Digits offers Time-based Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on all user accounts. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide a second form of verification, typically a code sent to their registered mobile device, in addition to their password. This ensures that even if login credentials are compromised, unauthorized access is thwarted by the need for an additional authentication step. Time-based One-Time Passwords (TOTP) generated anew every 30 seconds in software that runs locally on any PC or mobile device is FAR more secure than using an SMS. We are shocked that X still uses SMS!

Preventing Unauthorized Port Outs

Tossable Digits takes the security of number transfers seriously and has introduced a 7-day Number Transfer PIN system. This Number Transfer PIN adds an extra layer of protection to prevent unauthorized port outs. Users are required to provide this unique PIN when initiating a number transfer, ensuring that only authorized individuals can port out their virtual phone numbers. If your account uses our TOTP 2FA, nobody should be able to log into your account and create the Number Transfer PIN in the first place.

How Tossable Digits Mitigates SIM Swap Attacks

• Virtual Phone Numbers
  Tossable Digits provides users with virtual phone numbers that are not tied to a physical SIM card. This eliminates the risk associated with SIM cards and makes it impossible for attackers to execute a SIM swap attack on Tossable Digits customers.
  
• Multi-Layered Authentication
  Tossable Digits employs multi-layered authentication mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users can access and manage their virtual phone numbers. This includes strong password requirements, Two-Factor Authentication, and additional security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
  
• Secure Communication Channels
  All communications and transactions within the Tossable Digits platform are encrypted, adding an extra layer of security. This encryption ensures that user data remains confidential and protected from potential interception by malicious actors.
  
• Real-Time Monitoring
  Tossable Digits continuously monitors user accounts for any suspicious activities or attempts at unauthorized access. Real-time alerts and notifications are triggered in case of any anomalies, allowing users to take immediate action to secure their accounts.
  
• Educational Resources
  Tossable Digits provides users with educational resources and guidelines on best practices for online security. This empowers users to take proactive steps in safeguarding their virtual phone numbers and overall digital identity.

Conclusion

As cyber threats continue to evolve, it’s crucial for individuals and businesses to adopt proactive measures to protect their digital identities. Tossable Digits stands at the forefront of this effort, implementing cutting-edge security features, including 7-day Number Transfer PINs and Two-Factor Authentication, to prevent SIM swap attacks, unauthorized port outs, and ensure the safety of its users. By choosing Tossable Digits for your virtual phone number needs, you can rest assured that your communication channels are secure, and your identity is well-protected in the digital landscape.

Digital Security Afterthoughts

Yes, we are a Virtual Phone Company, so obviously we are big fans of SMS.

But SMS should NOT be used for 2FA when it can be avoided.

Software-based TOTP 2FA is far more secure. Both the client and the website shares a secret key that allows the 6-digit One-Time Passcode to be generated every 30 seconds. Since both sites share the same key, both can know the correct 6-digit code, based on a correct clock time.

Even better, use a Passkey. [Google] This gets rid of usernames and passwords and 2FA entirely and uses PKI, or Public Key Infrastructure. The Passkey is stored on your devices: Desktop, Laptop, Tablet, Phone. The Public Key is stored with the service, and the Private Key is stored in your Password Manager or in several other ways. The Private Key is never transmitted to the website. It signs a message with the private key, and the website can decrypt the message with the Public Key, and that way they verify that they trust each other and you get logged in.

So wherever possible, push websites to use either TOTP or Passkeys rather than SMS or a Phone Call or Email as the 2nd Factor in their Authentication. Emails and Phone Calls and SMS are simply too vulnerable in 2024 to safely rely on keeping your digital self safe.