Kent Police Crack Down on Nationwide SIM-Swap Scam
SIM-Swappers Nabbed in Folkestone Raid
Kent Police have arrested two suspects in a major SIM-swapping scam that netted crooks around £100,000. A 27-year-old woman and a 33-year-old man were arrested after raids on five addresses across Folkestone, including homes on Benson Lane and Clifton Road, on 18 September.
Officers seized a large amount of cash and multiple mobile phones linked to the fraud during the crackdown. The pair have been bailed pending further investigation.
The Scam That Hijacks Your Phone and Bank
The fraud works by tricking mobile providers into issuing replacement e-SIMs to the scammers, who impersonate the victims. This gives crooks full control of the victim’s phone number, letting them break into emails, bank apps, social media accounts, and more.
Once inside, the scammers change passwords and contact details, locking the real owners out of their accounts.
Victims Suffer Serious Financial Hits
- One victim faced nearly 30 fraudulent loan applications in their name.
- Another lost £600 through unauthorised PayPal credit transactions.
Kent Police tracked the criminals using IP addresses and delivery details linked to the online purchases involved in the scam.
Police Urge Public to Stay Alert
Kent Police warn that sudden loss of mobile signal, unexpected account change alerts, and unexplained financial transactions could be signs of SIM-swap fraud. Experts recommend using strong, unique passwords and regularly updating devices.
For more tips on protecting yourself from personal fraud, visit Kent Police’s fraud advice page.
