Are eSIMs safe, and are they more secure than physical SIM cards?

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital version of a traditional SIM card that’s built directly into your phone — after a quick setup, it’s ready to go.

But eSIMs offer more than just a simple setup. They also let you use multiple carriers and phone numbers on one device, making them a perfect choice for travelers or anyone who wants flexibility. Plus, there’s no risk of losing or damaging a SIM card any time you switch networks.

Once activated, an eSIM connects you to a mobile network, letting you use data just like a regular SIM. Most newer smartphones support eSIM technology, but if you're not sure whether your device is compatible — check our list of eSIM-supported devices.

An eSIM vs. a physical SIM — which one is more secure?

Nobody wants their personal info falling into the wrong hands, especially while traveling. So, between eSIMs and physical SIMs, which one’s got your back? The short answer is that choosing an eSIM is the safer bet.

First things first — a physical SIM card can be taken out of your phone and popped into another device in seconds, which makes it easier for someone to steal and misuse it if they get their hands on your phone. That means potential unauthorized access to your mobile services, data, and even personal accounts.

An eSIM, however, lives inside your phone. Since it’s embedded in the device, it can’t be physically removed. That makes it way harder to tamper with or steal. So when it comes to SIM cloning (where someone makes a copy of your SIM to gain unauthorized access to mobile networks, calls, or data usage), eSIMs are much tougher to crack. Cloning an eSIM requires some remote hacking skills, and mobile carriers have strict controls in place to prevent that kind of access.

That said, no SIM — physical or embedded — is completely invincible. eSIMs can still be vulnerable to social engineering, phishing, eSIM hacking, and device theft if someone has your credentials. The best way to protect yourself? Keep your phone locked, enable two-factor authentication on your accounts, and stay cautious of suspicious messages or links.

For a quick comparison between eSIM and physical SIM safety, take a look at this table:

Overall, if you’re looking for a more secure option with less physical vulnerability and more protection, eSIMs are the better choice.

How to choose a secure eSIM provider 

When selecting an eSIM app, it's important to prioritize security to ensure your personal data remains protected. First, a trustworthy eSIM provider should follow industry standards to protect your personal and payment information. Look for companies that comply with global security standards, such as the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).

When you’re investigating the security of an app of your choice, remember to read the app’s terms and conditions and determine who the data will be shared with. If possible, also check if your chosen eSIM service is partnered with a reputable mobile network operator.

Next, it’s also worth checking out its reputation. Has it had any past security issues, and how did support staff handle them?

Finally, don’t forget customer support. A reliable provider should have a responsive support team that can help if you ever run into security concerns, such as a lost device or potential fraud.

Safer browsing with Saily’s security features

Recently, Saily, an eSIM app, introduced eSIM security features designed to make your browsing experience even safer: 

• Virtual location, which helps protect your online privacy by masking your real browsing location. This means you can securely access your paid home content while traveling without exposing your personal data.

• Ad blocker, which is more than just a way to stop annoying ads. It’s a DNS-based tool that blocks intrusive and potentially harmful advertisements, preventing them from loading and using up your data. Fewer ads mean better browsing and extra protection against trackers and malicious content hidden in pop-ups.

• Web protection acts as a filter against online threats, blocking access to known malicious websites that could host scams, malware, or phishing attempts. It helps to ensure that your personal information stays safer while browsing.

With these built-in security features, the Saily eSIM app offers more than connectivity. Even if eSIMs are generally safe, Saily gives you additional protection and peace of mind, wherever you’re traveling. 

Can eSIMs offer additional benefits for travelers?

Beyond the security advantages, traveling with an eSIM has many additional benefits that can make your trip smoother. For example, you won’t need to hunt down a local SIM card vendor in an unfamiliar place or rely on public Wi-Fi just to get online. Instead, you can simply purchase a data plan before you leave or as soon as you land — no physical swapping, no stress.

This is especially helpful if you’re traveling between countries. With an eSIM, you can switch plans on the go without tinkering with tiny cards or carrying multiple SIMs. It’s one less thing to worry about, and a big plus for peace of mind.

You can pick a local, regional, or even global plan that suits your needs without worrying about surprise charges. And if you rely on a personal hotspot to stay connected on your laptop or other devices, good news — Saily supports this feature.

At the end of the day, whether an eSIM or a traditional SIM is right for you depends on your needs, so a deeper dive into how eSIMs compare to physical SIMs can help you make a decision.