SIM Cloning: SIM cards are designed to act as a unique identifier for your device. It enables you to send as well as receive phone calls, texts, and so many other functions.
So what is SIM cloning? Even though SIM cloning is certainly not considered a “recommended practice” for cell phone users hear this.
It may still be useful if you happen to inadvertently lose or destroy your SIM and need a backup. This may be reason enough for you to want to clone your SIM.
So how do you clone a SIM? – You can easily clone your SIM card with the aid of a SIM card reader and your original card.
Basics of SIM Cards
Let’s identify what a SIM card is as well as what it has been designed to do.
The Subscriber Identity Module or SIM card is primarily designed to safely as well as securely store your phone’s number. A good example is where you insert your SIM card into a different phone. The new device would still be able to receive calls made to your number.
SIM cards are connected to what is commonly referred to as the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) network. The function of the IMSI is that it functions as a hub for a variety of global cellular networks.
Also including the popular Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) and the Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks. As such, your SIM is essentially the access you have to global cell phone communication.
The existence of every SIM card is identified by a unique 64-bit SIM ID. This number is created only once for each individual cellphone user. It is shared with the IMSI network as soon as it is placed inside of a phone and activated. Then the phone itself will then transmit your SIM card’s identifying information to the IMSI network.
So now that we are done with the basics, let’s see how you can easily clone your SIM card.
Using a SIM Card Copier
As earlier stated, you can clone your SIM card using a SIM card copier. So if you are ready to start copying your SIM card, the first step you are to take is to retrieve it from your current device. Note that the specific means of removing your SIM card will differ from device to device. At the same time, you have to ensure that you are careful in order not to damage any of the other internal components in your hardware.
Currently, all SIM cards that are used today feature an IMSI number which is printed on the card itself. Now, this number can be anywhere from 11 to 16 digits in length. Without the IMSI number readily available, it may be impossible for you to clone your SIM card.
After obtaining the IMSI, you will have to use a SIM card reader in completing the next steps. You can purchase this hardware device via just about any major online electronics retailer.
After you have received your SIM card reader, you are to place your original SIM card inside of it. Then you can connect the SIM card reader to your computer to receive the next valuable piece of information, which is the authentication key.
After your SIM card reader has copied this information to your computer, you can then insert a new SIM into the reader to start the duplication process.
Other Important Considerations
When it comes to cloning your SIM card, here’s what you should understand. It is quite easy, to copy your SIM card for personal reasons. At the same time, it is also essential to note that it is easy for someone else to make a copy of your SIM card as well.
With this in mind, you’d agree that it is very important that you always keep your phone to yourself at all times. This is because, if an unauthorized person happens to clone your SIM card, chances are that your privacy will be significantly compromised.
With this in mind, you may have to consider getting a replacement SIM card in the event where you are not in control of your phone for an extended period of time.