A telephone number, seemingly innocuous, can serve as a key component in various malicious activities. It functions as a unique identifier linked to an individual, facilitating unauthorized access to personal accounts and enabling identity theft. For instance, a threat actor may use a phone number to initiate a SIM swap attack, gaining control of the victim’s cellular service and intercepting two-factor authentication codes.
The value of a phone number lies in its widespread use for verification and authentication processes across numerous online platforms. This widespread adoption, while convenient, creates vulnerabilities exploitable by individuals with malicious intent. Historically, phone numbers were primarily used for communication; however, their role has expanded to encompass a significant aspect of digital security, leading to increased risks if compromised.
