When a mobile phone number is canceled, telecom operators typically freeze it for 90 days before reintroducing it to the market. This process, known as "secondary release", is a common practice globally. While this mechanism helps optimize resource allocation, it also poses significant risks to the original user if proper precautions are not taken.

If a user fails to unbind their accounts from the canceled number, the new owner of the recycled number could potentially gain access to sensitive platforms such as Alipay, WeChat, and even bank accounts through SMS verification codes. This could lead to privacy breaches and financial losses.

To safeguard your personal information and assets, follow these essential steps before changing or canceling your mobile phone number:

1. Back up and unbind accounts

Before canceling your number, ensure you:

• Back up important data: Save your contacts, text messages, and cloud data.
• Unbind financial accounts: Disconnect your number from banking apps, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and other payment platforms.
• Unlink social media accounts: Update your phone number on platforms like WeChat and Weibo.
• Update shopping and membership accounts: Unbind your number from e-commerce platforms like Taobao and JD.com, as well as subscription services.
• Check cloud services: Ensure your number is removed from cloud storage platforms like iCloud or network drives.

For example:

• On Alipay, go to "Account Settings" > "Mobile Phone Number" to update your information.
• On WeChat, navigate to "Me" > "Settings" > "Account and Security" to change your linked number.

Notice: You can go to the service center of your mobile phone operator to check which internet platforms have your phone number been linked with.

2. Destroy your old SIM card

After canceling your number, physically destroy your SIM card to prevent anyone from recovering residual data. This simple step adds an extra layer of security.

3. Practice daily digital safety

• Exercise caution when using public devices, such as unprotected Wi-Fi or public phone charging stations, to prevent unauthorized access to unencrypted information on the phone.
• Stay alert to suspicious links and QR codes: Regularly review your social media privacy settings and disable features in commonly used chat apps that may leak personal information.
• Add an extra security layer to your accounts and avoid using easily guessable passwords (e.g., birthdays or names).

4. Know your rights

If your account is compromised due to a recycled number, you can:

• File a complaint with the telecom operator or the involved platform.
• Report the issue to the 12321 Harmful and Spam Internet Information Reporting and Reception Center.
• Seek legal recourse if necessary.

 

Sources: China Telecom, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology