Are eSIM Safe? Benefits and Risks — What You Need to Know
There is an undeniable advantage in the development of technology — the emergence of eSIM. This technology allows you to forget about inconvenient physical SIM cards, and use one SIM in 190+ countries. There is only one question left: are eSIMs safe? Let’s figure it out further.
What is eSIM?
eSIM (embedded SIM) is a programmable module integrated into the device’s chip that supports recording various carrier profiles. eSIM is an analog of a physical SIM card.
Unlike a physical SIM card, using eSIM simplifies the procedure of changing the operator and makes it more convenient to use the connection for those who have to travel frequently or want to have several phone numbers on one device. With its help, you can more freely choose and change tariff plans, which gives you more confidence that you are getting the best possible conditions on your smartphone.
Are eSIM safe? eSIM is several times safer than a regular SIM card, since it does not have a physical counterpart but works directly through the user’s device.
How Does eSIM Work?
For an eSIM to work, you need a device that supports the technology. Such gadgets are equipped with a small chip or module that is located inside.
The principle of operation can be compared with an NFC chip: when you pay for purchases by putting a smartphone to the terminal. Money is debited from the account but you do not need to physically have a card from one or another bank. The phone stores data about it.
To fully use eSIM, despite the fact that it is embedded in a smartphone or other device, the technology must be supported by a mobile operator and provide services related to eSIM.
eSIM and the specified profile are generated by the operator in the form of a QR code but can also be implemented manually, depending on the services of this operator or online service. Only after that, standard network connections are possible but in a completely new version.
Technical Features
Many devices allow you to add up to 5 eSIM mobile phones but you can only use one of them. Although in the future it is planned to use two or more at the same time. You can activate a non-physical card through a QR code that you receive from your operator. It must be saved. After all, if the phone is low, then you will not be able to simply pull out the card. You will need to activate it again on another device.
Why is it convenient to use eSIM? It gives the smartphone owner many advantages:
- to change the operator or phone number, you just need to switch one option in the device menu;
- you can’t lose it, as is often the case with a physical SIM card;
- eSIM will not be damaged or broken;
- it is possible to use it together with a regular SIM card in phones where there is no second slot;
- you can use the same number on multiple gadgets.
Comparison with Traditional SIM Cards
A physical SIM card requires insertion into a special slot of the device, whereas the eSIM is a virtual chip that is programmed and activated remotely.
To use a physical SIM card, you must have physical cards, while the eSIM can be activated and used without the need to own a physical card.
Connecting a physical SIM card to the operator’s network requires its physical integration into the device, while the eSIM can be connected remotely by simply activating the appropriate profile on the device.
Benefits of eSIM
The ability to connect an eSIM in modern devices has become one of the most popular among users. Combining all network capabilities in one device allows users to activate their services quickly and conveniently.
Are eSIM safe to use? eSIM is a secure technology that stores your data securely.
The risks of eSIM hacking are minimal, as device manufacturers and telecom operators pay great attention to security issues.
Enhanced Convenience
eSIM allows you not to waste time on a trip to the store for a regular SIM card but to activate the necessary services directly via the internet. The entire eSIM activation process takes place at home or in any place convenient for you online.
Flexibility in Switching Carriers
eSIM can be easily connected to any device compatible with this technology, even without having to remove or change the SIM card. In addition, you can easily switch between operators and online eSIM services from the comfort of your home.
Space-Saving Design
eSIM saves a built-in slot for other chips: a memory card or a support chip. Thus, phone manufacturers do not have to plan a SIM card slot in the phone, thereby changing the design of new models and adding new perks instead of old slots.
Improved Durability
Unlike a physical SIM card, the eSIM has no expiration date. It cannot break like a standard SIM card. In addition, eSIM is suitable for almost all devices, and you do not need to change the size of the SIM card to nano or micro.
Are eSIM Cards Safe? — Security Features
Compared to plastic SIM cards, the probability of eSIM theft or hack is lower. To intercept the number, a hacker will need to hack into the client’s personal account. After that, the fraudster will use the function of restoring or replacing the digital card but on his own phone.
Criminals reissue a physical SIM card without the subscriber’s knowledge using a fake notarized power of attorney or by stealing a phone, and with it a SIM card.
After the attacker intercepts the number, its owner loses access control to it. From this moment on, the fraudster can log into online banks, messengers, and other services, since the codes will already be sent to his phone.
To prevent a negative scenario, you need to:
- Use an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card.
- Use complex passwords in the personal accounts of mobile operators, as well as enable two-factor authentication.
In case of loss of the phone, you must contact the mobile communication company to block and replace the eSIM.
The same should be done if the QR code is lost before downloading the digital SIM card to the device or after deleting it, otherwise an attacker can easily activate the card.
Potential Risks and Concerns
1. Limited compatibility.
Despite the fact that eSIM technology is becoming more popular every year, it is still not as widespread as traditional SIM cards. Not all models of smartphones, tablets, and other devices support eSIM, especially budget models and devices released several years ago.
2. Difficulties in repairing and replacing the device.
If your smartphone with eSIM breaks down, you may have to face some difficulties when transferring your number to a new device. In some cases, it may be necessary to contact the telecom operator to reissue the eSIM, which may take time.
3. Privacy and security issues.
Some users have expressed concerns about the security of data storage on eSIM.
Since the eSIM is an embedded chip, theoretically it may be more vulnerable to hacker attacks than a traditional SIM card.
However, in practice, the risks of eSIM hacking are extremely low, as device manufacturers and telecom operators pay great attention to security issues.
How to Mitigate Risks?
It is worth remembering that the main danger of using eSIM is the minimum probability of hacking your online profile. In this case, attackers will gain access to your mobile number and will be able to use your identity for their own purposes. Therefore, take it seriously to set a password for your account and add two-factor authentication to log in to prevent different data leaks.
How Can I Get an eSIM?
You can get eSIM from any mobile operator or online service. To do this, simply contact the communication center or select an online service from the browser search. Next, follow the instructions of your chosen site.
Remember that the connection on different operating systems has its own characteristics.
- On iOS, in the “Cellular communication” section, select “Add cellular tariff”. Next, you will need to scan the QR code or enter the codes manually.
- On Android, you need to go to the phone settings, then sequentially to the sections “Network and Internet”, “Mobile network”, “Add”, “Download SIM card”. After that, either scan the QR code, or click “Need help” and enter the data manually.
During activation, the phone must be connected to the internet — via Wi-Fi or another SIM card. By the way, digital photography can be transferred to another device. To do this, you will need a previously received QR code. But first, eSIM must be removed from the previous smartphone, and it is also necessary to provide an internet connection.
Future of eSIM Technology
eSIM is likely to usher in a new era for connected devices, providing interoperability, security and freedom of choice for consumers. The introduction of eSIM goes beyond early smartphone use cases, which are likely to account for almost 50% of shipments of eSIM-enabled devices by 2025, and the Internet of Things in categories such as wearables, cars, PCs, and routers.
This technology is the future. According to many forecasts, it will be implemented in all smartphones after a while. After all, this format is more convenient for their manufacturers. The virtual SIM has a miniature size, it takes up little space inside the case.
How safe are eSIMs according to ecological problems? eSIM are also better in environmental terms. They reduce the use of plastic. The regulatory framework is constantly being improved. Due to its size, the electronic SIM card fits in very small devices.
