Are eSIMs safe?

You’ve probably heard of eSIM before—they’re eVERYWHERE. eSIM is short for embedded SIM and is a digital version of the physical SIM card traditionally used in cellphones. This newer technology is in all the latest phone models and has led to awesome things like slimmer phone models and dual SIM phones. However, with any new tech comes some new concerns. In this blog, we’ll discuss how safe it actually is to use an eSIM. (Spoilers: very.)

Is eSIM safe to use?

In short, yes: eSIM is very safe to use. In fact, it can be an even more secure option than  physical SIM cards. eSIM was designed to minimize hacking or cybersecurity threats. Here are just a few of the things that make eSIM secure:

• Since an eSIM is embedded into your phone (hey, it’s even in the name), your eSIM card cannot be swapped out or removed for unsavory reasons.
  
• eSIM has extra encryption to protect data, including a dedicated chip that securely stores your sensitive data and SIM profile.
  
• To activate or switch an eSIM profile, you have to authenticate yourself as a user, adding an extra layer of security.

Is eSIM more secure than physical SIM cards? 

There are many advantages an eSIM has over a physical SIM card. Here are a few:

• As mentioned above, eSIMs cannot be swapped out or removed, one of the many differences between eSIM vs physical SIM cards. Physical SIM cards, on the other hand, can be stolen or swapped out.
  
• eSIM cards are less likely to get damaged, since they’re actually embedded in your phone (you should still be careful around concrete, swimming pools and toilets, however).
  
• eSIMs are less prone to SIM cloning, especially compared to physical SIM cards which can be physically accessed.

Are eSIMs safer for traveling?

Yes, eSIM is great for all the jetsetters out there and lets you focus on the important things during your trip, like getting the perfect photo of your vacay for Instagram. Also, while you may still have to worry about your phone getting stolen (attenzione pickpocket), you actually don’t have to worry about your eSIM getting stolen.

Here are more benefits that eSIM can provide when you’re traveling abroad:

• With eSIM, you don’t have to worry about picking up and managing a local physical SIM card once you get to your international destination.
  
• With eSIM, it can be easier to have two SIM cards on your phone at once: one to use for your trip and one for your usual wireless plan to stay in touch with family and friends back home.
  
• You can set up your international plan before you even leave the country—which means you have no excuse not to text mom when you land.

Phone security tips for keeping eSIM extra secure

While eSIMs are already incredibly secure, there are a few extra ways you can protect your eSIM and all the important data it contains.

• Use strong passwords and biometrics. No more Password123. Please.
  
• Keep your phone’s operating system updated. Doing so usually means you’re getting security updates as well.
  
• Avoid public Wi-Fi when possible. Yes, even at your fave coffee shop. Instead, consider using your phone’s mobile hotspot feature for your away-from-home Wi-Fi needs.
  
• Use a VPN for added security. Short for Virtual Private Network, VPNs encrypt your personal data, obscure your IP address and generally make your online experience much safer.

• Only scan QR codes from reputable sources. On the side of a light pole doesn’t count.

You’re officially an eSIM security expert

Now you know that not only is eSIM super convenient, it’s also super secure. Ready to see if you’re phone is eSIM-compatible? Just tap that button below to get started.