What is an eSIM?
An embedded SIM, or eSIM, is a microchip that’s embedded onto your phone. It allows you to download network provider software and create different profiles, each with their own number and data plan.
The mobile device SIM card has evolved, from small, plastic cards to nano SIMS and now eSIMs. An eSIM has the same function as a SIM card, only it’s no longer inserted, but rather embedded onto the phone’s motherboard.
SIM stands for Subscriber Identify Module, which connects mobile devices via a service provider to networks. This connectivity system is known as IoT or the Internet of Things and includes drones, wearable devices and self-driving cars.
eSIM technology provides high hopes for the future. Supply chain requirements and costs are reduced, and customers can enjoy a streamlined, digital setup process. As the technology is adopted by manufacturers and service providers, soon we’ll be able to integrate them into other devices such as smartwatches, trackers, or drones.
How does eSIM work?
An embedded SIM card (eSIM card) is essentially a microchip that is now built into your phone’s motherboard. Users can access specific networks by scanning a QR code or simply downloading the carrier's software directly onto it.
If you think about the appearance of a traditional SIM card, it was a PVC plastic that surrounded a gold microchip. This gold component is the most important element of your SIM because it holds all of your key information to connect your phone to services.
Stored on that chip is your International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) number.
This number shows three key aspects; your mobile country code, network code, and a unique sequence of numbers, which is your subscription identifier.
This number is how your device is identified and authorized to your specific network so that you can access the services available to you.
By removing the physical SIM card aspect entirely, your data, mobile IP, and authentication key is digitally saved – like an electronic SIM card.
Traditional SIM cards are required to be physically inserted into a mobile device but carry the same identifying numbers. In addition, traditional SIM cards were used as extra storage space for your data, to ensure that when you changed devices, the information was carried across.
How are eSIMs used?
eSIMS allow you to activate a mobile plan from a local provider, without the need for a physical SIM card.
Say good-bye to carrying multiple devices or buying disposable SIM cards because eSIMs allow access to several cards at once. While this may seem irrelevant for some, there are two major benefits to utilizing them –
International Travel
One of the most significant advantages of using an international eSIM is its convenience for travellers. Using traditional SIMs while traveling has high roaming charges when used outside the country of origin – almost forcing the user to purchase a local/disposable SIM card while on holiday.
Restricted access to purchasing SIM cards
When traveling to a foreign country, tourists may not be able to or even be allowed to purchase a local SIM card. Some of these reasons are:
- Having to provide your personal data, not knowing how they will use your information.
- Language barrier and not being able to review documentation, online traffic consumption or terms of use.
- Not having proof of address to verify the purchase, if required by law.
With eSIM for travellers, you eliminate these issues by allowing users to switch plans without physical SIM exchanges, meaning better rates for data plans from local telecom operators.
Business and Personal Use
For business owners and professionals who juggle multiple numbers or travel frequently, an eSIM offers the ability to install several eSIMs with data plan for different countries.
You can also check emails, join online meetings - all at a controlled data consumption rate. set up automatic refills when your data gets low. This ensures that you’ll never run out of data unexpectedly.
Why use an eSIM Overseas?
To sum up, using an eSIM while travelling can be an easy way to avoid obstacles you’d otherwise face trying to keep in touch with friends, family or work back home, such as:
- High roaming charges and hidden fees
- Connectivity issues due to limited Wi-Fi availability
- Local government restrictions, such as requirements to register a locally bought sim card after registration and provide your ID number to local authorities
Using an eSIM can also limit your exposure to cyber threats, helping you to avoid ID, personal or financial data leakage which you might have had to risk via public wi-fi or local kiosks requiring a scan of your ID.
Advantages of an eSIM
Convenience
Having no physical SIM card means that it's easier to set up and/or switch between service providers or risk losing your small SIM card. To activate an eSIM, you simply download the software from the provider.
Flexibility
Multiple eSIMs with data plans for different countries or regions can be maintained on a single device - but you’re only provided with data and not a virtual number. eSIM iPhone functionality allows up to 8 eSIMs per single device. You can even transfer an eSIM to a compatible table or smartwatch or switch between service providers.
Durability
With an embedded SIM card, you’re no longer required to physically swap cards in the phone. This means less wear and tear on your device. For manufacturers, it frees up valuable space within the device, allowing for slimmer designs.
Reduced waste
SIM cards have generated approximately 20,000 tons of plastic waste, and 80% of the carbon emissions are from manufacturing alone. As eSIMs are digital, manufacturers are reducing plastic usage packaging and supply chain needs.
Disadvantages of eSIM
Compatibility
Not all devices support eSIM technology, but most higher-level phones do. The iPhone 15 series exclusively supports eSIMs. However, some operators require a SIM ID to activate the service, which is only available on physical SIM cards. Click here to check if youre smartphone supports eSIM (link on devices list on Kaspersky eSIM store page).
Availability
This technology is only available in specific countries. In addition, not all carriers or service providers have an eSIM service yet. Be sure to check this before traveling or selecting a service provider.
Recovery and Transfer Issues
Transferring an eSIM from a lost or damaged device can be more complex than simply moving a physical SIM. By holding on to your network carrier's activation process information, it should make transferring easier.
You can only activate an eSIM on one device from Kaspersky eSIM store but not transfer it. However, you can still top-up the balance from an existing eSIM on the store.
Are eSIMs safe or more secure?
When it comes to security, eSIMs offer some inherent advantages over traditional SIM cards. Since there is no physical card to be lost, stolen, or tampered with, many of the physical security risks are mitigated. Furthermore, the ability to remotely manage eSIMs via a secure connection reduces the risk of unauthorized access typically associated with physical handling.
However, like any technology, eSIMs are not immune to cyber threats. The software-based nature of them, make it susceptible to software exploits or hacking if not properly secured. This makes adopting robust security measures critical.
Types of mobile security threats
Malware attacks
Malicious software can be installed on your phone via suspicious links or other means, to steal sensitive data.
Unsecured Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is a hotspot for criminals. They create fake access points to intercept information you’re using for sensitive apps.
Data leaks
There are a number of ways that your data can be publicly leaked, enabling permissions for apps being one of them.
Phishing attacks
If your cell number or email address is in the hands of fraudsters, they can use deceptive communications that get you to disclose information, under the guise of being a legit supplier.
Spyware/Stalker-ware
Stalker-ware or tracking apps can be installed on mobile devices to access your location, data usage or general phone information in real time. In 2023, a Kaspersky study found that 31,031 unique users that were affected by spyware.
Protecting your eSIM with Security Tech
Just like any device, there are several options available to secure your digital SIM card against attacks.
Kaspersky provides a range of security solutions that can enhance the safety of devices using eSIMs. Products, such as Kaspersky Internet Security for Android offer comprehensive protection against malware, spyware, and other cyber threats. Kaspersky’s security solutions include features like VPN services, which can secure your data when switching between different network providers on your eSIM-equipped device.
The integration of such security products ensures that while the eSIM provides a versatile and efficient means of managing your mobile communications, it also upholds a high standard of security, safeguarding against the increasing risks in the digital world.
By embracing the right security technologies, users can fully benefit from the convenience and flexibility of eSIMs without compromising their safety. Kaspersky’s commitment to delivering top-notch security solutions makes it a strong ally in the age of embedded SIM technology.
Get extra protection with Kaspersky security products
Kaspersky products are easy to use, offer comprehensive protection for mobile, and an all-encompassing high performance. As an award-winning product, you can customize your protection to suit your needs and eSIM security priorities.
For parents, this product allows a comprehensive oversight into your child’s online activities on specific apps – from your own mobile device. It’s also a GPS tracking tool that allows you to see your child’s whereabouts.
You’ll also have control over content, be able to educate them about positive online habits, and restricting screen time to ensure a better online-offline balance.
Android protection
Kaspersky: VPN & Antivirus
Kaspersky offers comprehensive mobile security protection that secures your Android phone and tablets with:
- Superfast VPN - secure connection without compromising device speed
- Antivirus - protection from viruses across devices
- Anti-malware + Anti-phishing - protected against malicious links
- Data leak checker - regular checks for data breaches on your information
- Identify theft check - accounts linked to your number are leaking data
iOS protection
VPN & Antivirus by Kaspersky for iPhone and iPad
- Anti phishing - protection from sites designed to steal your data
- Jailbreak detection - alerts if your device has been compromised
- Secure QR scanner - pre-scans codes to ensure they are safe
- VPN - automatically detects unsafe networks and turns on
- Password manager - securely store and manage your passwords
