Have you ever found yourself needing to swap your MTN SIM card, perhaps because it got lost, stolen, or just stopped working?
I know how stressful that can be, especially when you want to keep your number.
That’s why I’m here to guide you through the SIM swap process on MTN, step by step.
It’s simpler than you might think, and you don’t need to be tech-savvy to get it done.
I’ll walk you through everything from getting a new SIM card to answering the security questions MTN will ask you.
Let’s get your phone back up and running together!
Before You Start
Understand the Process: A SIM swap involves replacing your current SIM card with a new one while keeping your existing phone number.
Prepare Your Details: Have your personal information handy, including your legal name, ID number, and details about your MTN account.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a SIM Swap
1. Acquire a New RICA-Registered MTN SIM Card
- Visit your nearest MTN store or an authorized retailer to purchase a new SIM card.
- Ensure the SIM is registered under your name (this process is known as RICA). The store assistant will help you with this.
2. Activate Your New SIM Card
- Insert the new SIM card into your phone.
- You might receive welcome messages from MTN. This indicates your SIM card is ready for the next steps.
3. Start the SIM Swap Process
- Dial *135# from your new SIM card.
- Choose option 5 for ‘SIM Swap’ from the menu that appears.
4. Follow the Instructions Received via SMS
- After selecting the SIM swap option, you will receive an SMS with further instructions.
- If the SMS asks you to call 135 or visit an MTN service center, it might indicate an issue, such as your line being blacklisted.
5. Answer Security Questions
- You will be prompted to answer a series of security questions to verify your identity. These may include:
- Your legal name and MTN cellphone number.
- Duration of SIM card usage and the date you started using MTN services.
- Your South African ID number.
- Reason for the SIM swap (e.g., loss, theft, damage, upgrade).
- Participation in the MTN points program.
- Details of your last recharge, including amount and date.
- The model of your last phone used with the SIM.
6. Complete the SIM Swap
- After successfully answering the security questions, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS indicating that the SIM swap will be completed within 2-4 hours.
- A follow-up SMS will confirm the successful swap, advising you to wait for 24 hours for full activation.
If You Still Have Your Old SIM Card
If your old SIM card is still functional and you’re simply upgrading:
- Prepare Both Phones: Ensure both your old and new SIM cards are inserted in working phones.
- Initiate the SIM Swap: Send the message “SIM swap” to 44770 from your old SIM.
- Receive and Use the OTP: You’ll get a one-time password (OTP) that expires in 15 minutes. Send “swap your old MTN number *OTP#” from your new SIM to 44770.
- Wait for the Switch: Your old SIM will deactivate, and the new SIM will take over.
Tips for a Smooth SIM Swap
- Keep Your Details Handy: Having all the required information at your fingertips will make the process faster.
- Patience is Key: Wait for the confirmation messages before attempting to use your new SIM card.
- Visit an MTN Store for Help: If you encounter any issues, MTN staff are well-equipped to assist with SIM swaps.