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When people change their phone numbers without updating them across online services, the next person who receives that number can easily gain access to their sensitive information
Once you change your number, make sure to update your contact info on all platforms to prevent any misuse. (Shutterstock)
In today’s connected world, a mobile number is more than just a way to make calls; it is linked to bank accounts, social media profiles, and dozens of digital services. But what happens when your old number lands in someone else’s hands? A recent viral Reddit post has sparked concern after a user revealed the risks that come with reissued mobile numbers.
According to the post, the user bought a new SIM card and soon began receiving calls and messages meant for strangers. When he checked Truecaller, the number was shown as belonging to a woman named Kiran. The new owner discovered that the number was still linked to her accounts on platforms such as Zomato, Swiggy, Uber, Facebook, and others.
“I could log into Kiran’s Facebook account and view her personal details,” the user wrote, “Even new user offers on Zomato were missing, Uber had poor ratings, all because of the previous owner. I even received loan recovery calls and saw the number registered on government portals.”
This incident has highlighted a major privacy risk. When people change their phone numbers without updating them across online services, the next person who receives that number can easily gain access to their sensitive information. Several reports have surfaced of new users inadvertently accessing bank accounts, delivery apps, or even government sites linked to the previous owner’s number.
Why It Happens
As per guidelines issued by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), a mobile number can be marked “inactive” and reissued if it remains unused or unrecharged for 90 days. In 2023, the Supreme Court also ruled that telecom operators cannot be stopped from reissuing inactive numbers. While this practice helps manage limited number resources, it also exposes users to the risk of data misuse.
What You Should Do
If your old number has been deactivated or reassigned, it is vital to act quickly. Experts recommend updating your contact information on all major online platforms to prevent unauthorised access:
1. Bank Accounts and UPI Apps (Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe): Visit your bank branch or contact customer care to update your registered number. Most digital payment apps also allow number changes under Settings → Profile → Update Mobile Number.
2. Social Media Accounts (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter): Go to Account Settings or Personal Information and replace your old number with the new one.
3. E-commerce and Ride Apps (Zomato, Swiggy, Ola, Uber): Update your number under Profile Settings and complete OTP verification to secure your account.
4. Email and Two-Factor Authentication: Change your linked number and verify through your email to ensure no one else can intercept login codes.
Digital Safety First
The simplest precaution is to never let your old number remain inactive for long. Before discontinuing a SIM, update it across all essential apps and websites. Always monitor login alerts and security notifications sent to your email.
November 10, 2025, 17:29 IST
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