Scammers are now targeting elevator SIM cards, transforming this essential equipment into fraud tools, causing enormous financial and operational damage. This new scam technique, although malicious, raises questions about the security of connected infrastructures.
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The elevator, the new playground for cybercriminals
Modern elevators, often overlooked in security strategies, are equipped with SIM cards for remote maintenance and emergency calls. These cards have become a prime target for scammers.
By easily accessing the technical compartments, the criminals steal these cards, thus launching a scam technique known as “SMS pumping”. This method allows fraudulent messages to be sent massively.
Text messages perfectly mimic official communications, creating a sense of urgency among recipients. Residential buildings and public buildings are particularly vulnerable to these attacks.
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The double punishment: paralyzed buildings and astronomical bills
The theft of a SIM card can cost up to 500,000 euros in telephone bills and reactivation fees. Nathan Lemaire explains that this financial loss is catastrophic for building managers.
In addition, elevators become unusable, directly affecting the daily lives of residents, especially the elderly and people with reduced mobility. The impact of these actions goes well beyond financial losses.
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Cybercriminals exploit technical vulnerabilities to trap recipients with fraudulent messages. These practices highlight the need to improve the security of connected equipment.
🔍 Limited monitoring | Residential buildings and public buildings are often poorly monitored, making SIM cards easier to steal. |
💸 High bills | Each stolen SIM card can result in costs of up to 500,000 euros. |
🚫 Elevators unusable | Without their SIM cards, elevators can no longer operate, causing major disruption. |
Solutions to counter this threat
Faced with this threat, several solutions are being considered. Using eSIM could make it more difficult for thieves, making SIM card theft obsolete.
It is also suggested to restrict SIM cards to a single call number. This approach would limit their fraudulent use. However, implementing such solutions requires cooperation across industries.
Telephone operators can play a crucial role by offering blocking functions to prevent fraudulent use of SIM cards. Elevator security must be strengthened to prevent further scams.
The question remains: how can industries and operators collaborate effectively to protect connected infrastructure from such threats?
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