New Delhi | With digital banking and smartphone-based services becoming an essential part of everyday life, eSIM-related cyber fraud is emerging as a dangerous new tool for online criminals. A recent case reported from Delhi has once again highlighted how a single fraudulent phone call can allow cyber criminals to take complete control of a person’s digital identity. In the incident, fraudsters allegedly gained access to a resident’s mobile number and used it to infiltrate banking and e-commerce accounts, leading to unauthorized purchases worth nearly ₹3.99 lakh.
Following an investigation, authorities arrested an accused from Bihar’s Jamui district. According to investigators, two mobile phones and two LED televisions allegedly purchased using the proceeds of the fraud were recovered during the operation.
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According to details emerging from the investigation, the victim had received a phone call from a person claiming to be associated with a telecom service provider. The caller reportedly informed him that his mobile number needed to be upgraded to an eSIM. The victim declined the request and disconnected the call. However, shortly afterward, his mobile network suddenly stopped functioning.
Initially suspecting a technical issue, the victim visited a telecom store the following day, where he was informed that an eSIM had already been activated on his number. In effect, control of the mobile number had been transferred to another device without his knowledge. During the process, he also discovered that his Aadhaar profile had been locked.
After restoring his mobile services and regaining access to his banking facilities, the victim noticed several high-value transactions linked to his credit card. Investigation into the transaction history revealed that expensive electronic items had been purchased through e-commerce platforms, with the total value of the unauthorized transactions reaching approximately ₹3.99 lakh.
A cyber fraud complaint was subsequently registered and a technical investigation launched. Investigators found that the purchased products had been delivered to incomplete or temporary addresses in Delhi and Patna, allegedly to make tracking and identification difficult after delivery.
Based on digital surveillance and technical analysis, investigators traced the suspicious activity to Bihar’s Jamui region. A team later conducted a raid with local assistance and arrested the accused, identified as Sachin Kumar. During interrogation, the accused allegedly revealed that he had learned cyber fraud techniques through online open-source platforms and internet forums.
Investigators further found that once control of the victim’s eSIM was obtained, the accused could intercept OTPs, banking alerts, emails, and shopping account access linked to the mobile number. Saved card credentials were then allegedly used to purchase costly electronic items online. Authorities said the accused often used roadside delivery points or incomplete addresses to avoid detection. The products were later sold in local markets at discounted rates to generate cash.
Renowned cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said eSIM swap fraud is becoming one of the most serious forms of digital financial crime because it allows criminals to bypass multiple layers of banking security simply by taking control of a victim’s mobile number. According to him, sudden loss of mobile network, failure to receive OTPs or banking alerts, and unusual SIM-related activity are major warning signs of such fraud.
Cyber security experts have advised users not to trust unsolicited calls, links, or requests related to eSIM activation or SIM upgrades. In cases where a mobile network suddenly stops working, customers are advised to immediately contact their telecom provider, banks, and the national cyber helpline 1930. Experts also recommend changing banking passwords, email credentials, and enabling additional security measures without delay.
