(WJAR) — It’s hard to imagine going anywhere without a cell phone.

But just because it’s in your hands doesn’t mean it’s safe!

Scammers hijack phone numbers and use them to steal all kinds of information and money.

This is called SIM swapping.

According to Michael Bruemmer, vice president of data breach resolution at Experian, scammers can call your wireless carrier and ask to transfer your SIM card to their device, allowing them to remotely hijack your phone.

“That number gets ported and then they control your phone,” Bruemmer explained. “And once they control your phone, they can receive SMS and information, they can use that second authentication factor to open bank accounts and steal other parts of your identity.”

How can you protect these accounts?

“It’s best to have a strong password,” Bruemmer said. “You can also choose an authentication method without SMS.”

Bruemmer recommends that consumers do not have two-factor authentication codes sent to their phone.

Instead, he suggests downloading an authentication app or a code generation app.

You should also try to protect your SIM card.

“You also have the right to contact your mobile operator and request an additional PIN code or lock feature that will lock your phone, just like you put a credit freeze on your credit file so that no one can swap the SIM card without your authorization,” Bruemmer explained.

He said if your SIM card gets hacked, your phone should still work.

You must immediately call your mobile operator’s customer service hotline and request that the account be closed.

After that, you should change all your passwords, closely monitor all your accounts, and freeze your credit.