How Are Nearly 20 Million SKT Subscribers Securing Their Data?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In light of a major data breach, SK Telecom reveals that nearly 20 million subscribers are opting for its USIM Protection Service. This proactive approach underscores the importance of safeguarding personal information in today's digital landscape. Discover how SK Telecom is enhancing security measures and what steps customers can take to protect themselves.
Key Takeaways
- Approximately 20 million subscribers have signed up for the USIM Protection Service.
- Free USIM replacements are being offered to all 25 million subscribers.
- Temporary suspension of new subscriber sign-ups at retail stores is in effect.
- International travelers are advised to replace their USIM chips for security.
- Automatic enrollment for vulnerable individuals has been established.
Seoul, May 4 (NationPress) SK Telecom announced on Sunday that approximately 20 million subscribers have enrolled in its USIM Protection Service after a significant data breach incident. As of Sunday morning, a total of 19.9 million individuals had registered for the service, and 956,000 have already replaced their universal subscriber identity module (USIM) chips, as per SK Telecom's daily briefing.
Additionally, around 7.6 million customers have scheduled USIM replacements online, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.
SK Telecom clarified that the USIM Protection Service offers the same level of security against unauthorized financial activities as physically changing the USIM chip.
The company detected a cyberattack on April 18, which indicated a massive leak of customer USIM information.
In reaction, SK Telecom provided free USIM replacements to all 25 million subscribers, including 2 million budget phone users, to mitigate potential risks.
The telecom giant also encouraged users to sign up for its USIM Protection Service.
To further bolster security, SK Telecom will temporarily pause new subscriber enrollments at its 2,600 retail outlets nationwide starting Monday. This decision was made at the request of the South Korean government to focus on customer protection and USIM replacements.
Moreover, an automatic enrollment system for digitally vulnerable individuals into the USIM Protection Service has been established.
For international travelers, SK Telecom has arranged temporary booths at Incheon International Airport for on-site USIM replacements.
Those utilizing international roaming services are not eligible for the USIM Protection Service and are urged to replace their USIM chips to secure their data while traveling.
"Starting May 5, our 2,600 retail stores will cease new subscriptions and concentrate on replacing universal subscriber identity module (USIM) cards," stated Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ryu Young-sang.
"This suspension will continue until we develop solutions to tackle the USIM supply shortage."
He also mentioned that mobile number portability (MNP) transfers from other mobile network operators will be halted during this period.
Point of View
I believe that incidents like this highlight the crucial necessity for enhanced cybersecurity measures in our digital world. SK Telecom's swift response to protect its customers reflects a growing awareness of data security issues, which should prompt all telecom providers to prioritize user safety.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the USIM Protection Service?
The USIM Protection Service is designed to protect subscribers from unauthorized financial activities by providing the same security level as a physical USIM chip replacement.
How many subscribers have signed up for the USIM Protection Service?
As of May 4, nearly 20 million subscribers have enrolled in the USIM Protection Service.
What actions has SK Telecom taken in response to the data breach?
SK Telecom is offering free USIM replacements to all 25 million subscribers and has temporarily suspended new subscriptions at its retail stores.
Are international travelers eligible for the USIM Protection Service?
No, international travelers using roaming services are not eligible for the USIM Protection Service and should replace their USIM chips for data security.
What measures are being taken to assist vulnerable individuals?
SK Telecom has implemented an automatic enrollment system for digitally vulnerable individuals into the USIM Protection Service.
