My mum recently fell victim to a SIM swap scam, which allowed the scammers access to her bank account. Thankfully, we realized what was happening quickly and avoided any major damage, but I want to make sure this doesn't happen again. I'm moving as much as possible to using two-factor authentication (2FA), but I'm looking for more preventative measures. They're getting smarter, and she isn't as tech-savvy as I am, so I need solid advice.
4 Answers
A fun idea could be getting her a smartwatch that can handle some of these notifications for her. It’s a way to keep things handy and might make her feel more secure having alerts at her wrist!
One of the best things you can do is switch to a 2FA method that doesn’t rely on SMS. Look into using an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or the one from Apple. This keeps your authentication more secure since it doesn’t go through the mobile network which can be compromised.
Definitely consider using 2FA methods other than SMS. If that's not an option due to the services she's using, think about setting up a separate communication method like Google Voice. This way, it’s a number that can receive texts or calls but isn’t linked directly to her mobile number, providing an extra layer of safety. Also, check with her mobile provider for any added security options they might offer.
Also, keep an eye on her banking notifications. Make sure she gets alerts for any unusual activity. It’s a good way to catch any issues early if something goes wrong. Being proactive with security is key!
Exactly! And if a service only offers SMS for 2FA, it might be wise to look for alternatives. There are usually other services that offer better security.