How Hackers Can Steal Your Crypto Without Touching Your Wallet

The Silent Heist No One Sees Coming

How Hackers Can Steal Your Crypto Without Touching Your Wallet

More people are losing money to a sneaky scam called a SIM swap attack. Here’s how it works—and how to protect yourself.

What is a SIM Swap?

A SIM swap is when a scammer tricks your phone company into giving them control of your phone number. Once they do this, they can:

• Receive your text messages and calls

• Steal two-factor authentication (2FA) codes

• Log into your accounts, including crypto wallets, banking apps, and emails

The scary part: They don’t need to hack your phone or computer. They just need to fool the phone company.

How Does It Happen?

1. Scammers gather info about you online—like from social media or past data leaks.

2. They call your mobile provider pretending to be you.

3. They ask to transfer your number to a new SIM card they control.

4. Once approved, they have full access to your phone number.

Real Example:

One crypto investor lost everything during a flight. While they were in the air, scammers took over their phone and emptied their crypto wallet before the plane even landed.

How To Protect Yourself:

• Avoid SMS-based 2FA: Use app-based authentication apps like Google Authenticator instead of text messages.

• Have a Separate Phone for 2FA: Keep a second phone or number just for authentication codes.

• Use Unique Emails: Use a different email for each website or app to make it harder for scammers to find your accounts.

• Check if You’ve Been Hacked: Use sites like haveibeenpwned.com to see if your email or passwords were leaked.

For Businesses & Crypto Users:

• Use multisignature wallets that need multiple approvals before sending money.

• Train employees to recognize scams.

• Monitor crypto activity with specialized tools like Crystal Intelligence that track suspicious crypto transactions in real time.

Bottom Line:

SIM swap scams are sneaky but preventable. Be cautious, use better security tools, and stay alert—because crypto security starts with you.

70% of all cyber attacks target small businesses, I can help protect yours.