Someone else has obtained your old SIM card; find out how to keep your UPI and bank account data safe..

A mobile number is not merely a means of communication; it has become linked to one's entire digital identity. Recently, several cases have gone viral on Reddit and social media where individuals purchased a new SIM card and, upon logging into apps with that number, found themselves able to access the previous owner's personal data.

Everything from Facebook profiles, online shopping histories, and Ola/Uber ratings to bank loan recovery calls begins reaching the new user.
If your old number has been re-allocated to someone else, it can pose a serious threat to both your privacy and your bank account balance.

**Telecom companies re-allocate deactivated numbers**
According to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), if a SIM card shows no activity or recharges for 90 consecutive days (three months), the telecom company deems the number inactive. Once inactive, the company recycles the number and releases it back into the market for new customers. In 2023, the Supreme Court also acknowledged that telecom companies cannot be prevented from re-issuing deactivated numbers. Therefore, the responsibility for safeguarding personal data lies entirely with the user.

**Four steps to take immediately when your old number is deactivated**

**Bank accounts and UPI apps**
As soon as your old number is deactivated, visit your bank branch or use net banking to register your new mobile number. Additionally, go to the profile settings of your UPI apps to unlink the old number and update your UPI ID with the new number.

**Social media accounts**
When your old number is deactivated, go to the account settings (specifically the 'Personal Information' or 'Account Center' sections), add your new mobile number, verify it via OTP, and then completely remove the old number.

**Food delivery and ride-sharing apps**
Update your number in the profile settings of these apps. If the old number is no longer active, create a new account using your new number and delete the old one. Two-Factor Authentication and Email Addresses
For services where two-factor authentication is enabled, update your recovery number immediately. Also, do not forget to update the phone number associated with your email ID so that you continue to receive login alerts.

The simplest way to avoid digital fraud is to ensure your old mobile number never remains inactive. If you are getting a new number, update it across all your important accounts—such as bank accounts, government portals, marketplaces, and social media—before completely surrendering the old one. A little vigilance can protect you from major cyber fraud and data leaks.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.