The convenience of accessing mobile internet while travelling comes with a hidden danger—identity theft. Travellers must register their SIM cards in many popular tourist destinations using their passports or national IDs. While this measure is intended to enhance security, cybercriminals exploit the process to steal personal data and commit fraud.
According to Vykintas Maknickas, CEO of travel eSIM provider Saily, travellers must exercise extreme caution when purchasing SIM cards abroad.
“Registering a SIM card serves a good cause. It helps combat criminal activity, ensure national security, and prevent the misuse of mobile communications for illegal purposes. Nevertheless, criminals use this obligation to collect information from travelers’ passports and to make a profit at their expense. So, never blindly trust the first SIM card seller you see outside an airport or train station.”
The Growing Threat of SIM Card Fraud
SIM card registration is mandatory in several tourist hotspots, including Thailand, France, Spain, Italy, Kenya, Morocco, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Australia. Travellers who unknowingly provide their passports to unauthorized SIM card vendors risk exposing their personal information to cybercriminals.
Passports contain highly sensitive data, such as:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Personal identification number
Fraudsters leverage this data to infiltrate bank accounts, apply for credit, and even commit crimes under a victim’s identity. Personal details are often sold on the dark web, increasing the risk of identity theft, phishing attacks, and financial fraud.
The Hidden Danger of Pre-Registered SIM Cards
Some vendors offer pre-registered SIM cards, claiming they bypass the need for passport registration. However, Maknickas warns that this is not a safer alternative.
“There are sellers who offer pre-registered SIM cards. This might sound like a good and privacy-friendly option. Unfortunately, sometimes these SIM cards are already tied to someone else’s identity, which is illegal, so you might be held responsible for identity theft.”
A pre-registered SIM could unknowingly involve travellers in fraudulent activities, leaving them vulnerable to legal complications and potential arrests.
How to Safeguard Your Data While Traveling
To avoid falling victim to SIM card registration scams, travellers should follow these security measures:
1. Use eSIM-Based Mobile Internet Providers
Switching to eSIM technology eliminates the need for physical SIM cards. eSIM providers like Saily offer secure, pre-configured mobile plans, preventing fraudsters from exploiting passport details. Additionally, some eSIM services come with built-in cybersecurity protections against malware and phishing attempts.
2. Buy from Authorized Mobile Operators
Always purchase SIM cards from official carrier stores, airport kiosks, or authorized retailers. Unofficial vendors, especially those operating outside transit hubs, pose the highest risk of fraud.
3. Verify the SIM Registration Process
Ensure that your SIM card is registered in your name and that you receive official confirmation from the provider. If a vendor insists on completing the process on your behalf, consider it a red flag.
4. Monitor Your Bank and Mobile Accounts
After registering a new SIM, regularly check your bank accounts and phone bills for any unusual transactions or unauthorized activities. Immediate detection can prevent further financial damage.
The Future of Secure Mobile Connectivity
With increasing concerns over data security, eSIM adoption is becoming the preferred alternative for international travellers. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are embedded directly into the phone, eliminating the need for physical registration and reducing exposure to fraud.
Industry experts predict that eSIM technology will become the global standard, enhancing security and simplifying connectivity for frequent travellers. As awareness grows, tourists must remain vigilant and adopt safer mobile solutions to protect their sensitive data.
Final Thought: Stay One Step Ahead of Cybercriminals
In an era where personal data is as valuable as currency, travellers cannot afford to be careless. SIM card registration, while necessary for security, has become a double-edged sword. The best defence is awareness—by opting for secure alternatives like eSIMs, purchasing SIMs from authorized sellers, and staying vigilant against fraudulent schemes, travellers can enjoy seamless connectivity without compromising their privacy.
For more information on eSIM technology and secure travel connectivity, visit Saily’s official website.
Written by: My Thanh Pham
