Google Fi launches ‘Number Lock’ to enhance SIM security

Number Lock locks your phone number within your SIM card, disabling any further malicious activity

Tech Desk - Jul 10, 2024

An undated image of Google Fi logo. — Unsplash

Google’s telephone calls and messaging service provider, Google Fi, has introduced a new feature as protection against fraud.

The ‘Number Lock' feature will take action against SIM swap, a kind of cyber attack where someone tries to trick your carrier and pretends to be you by transferring your phone number to a new SIM card in their possession, giving them access to your texts, calls, financial accounts and two-factor authentication codes linked to that number.

Once activated, the feature will lock your phone number within your SIM card, disabling any further attempt to transfer your number. The feature will keep working unless you disable it.

How to enable Number Lock on Google Fi

Go to the Google Fi website and select user.
Then go to the phone settings, in the Privacy & Security section click on Number Lock.
Now, tap sign in to manage Number Lock, confirm your Google account credentials and the lock is enabled successfully.

However, you can also protect your number from any SIM swap attacks by enabling two-factor authentication of your Google account.

This adds an extra layer of protection, in case someone attacks you, by requiring both the password and the verification code.

Also, never post your phone number online and be careful while sharing it with others.