SKT Offers Free SIM Replacement After Data Leak
- Minseo Kim
- Apr 29, 2025
- 1 min read
April 30, 2025
Minseo Kim
After a hacking incident exposed customer data, SK Telecom (SKT) CEO Yoo Young-sang apologized and announced free SIM card replacements for affected users. Starting April 28, customers can swap their SIMs at T World stores and airport roaming centers. An online reservation system and increased staffing are in place to handle demand.
However, concerns have emerged over supply shortages. SKT currently holds one million SIM cards and plans to add five million more by May, but with nearly 25 million potential users, many question whether full coverage is possible.
SKT claims replacing SIMs will prevent most risks, as sensitive personal information like names or ID numbers was not leaked. Customers unable to replace immediately are encouraged to enroll in the free "SIM Protection Service," which blocks unauthorized SIM use.
Despite reassurances, some warn of ongoing risks, such as SIM swapping scams that could lead to financial theft. Phishing attempts impersonating SKT services have also been reported. Many customers are pursuing legal action, demanding a full investigation and stronger safeguards to prevent future breaches.
