Stuck with a lost or damaged SIM card? Don’t worry. If you’re a Vodacom customer, doing a SIM swap is quick and easy. In this guide, we explain how to do a SIM swap on Vodacom in South Africa, step-by-step. Whether you’re on prepaid or contract, you’ll find everything you need to know.
What Is a SIM Swap?
A SIM swap is the process of moving your cellphone number and services from your old SIM to a new one. This is useful if your phone was lost, stolen, or if the SIM card is damaged.
Why You May Need a SIM Swap
There are several reasons to do a SIM swap:
- Your phone was stolen or lost
- The SIM card is damaged or not working
- You’re switching to an eSIM or newer SIM format
- You want to use the same number on a new device
Learn how to keep your MTN number active by following our step-by-step guide on how to do a SIM swap on MTN.
What You Need Before Starting
To complete a SIM swap on Vodacom, you’ll need:
- A RICA-registered new SIM card (starter pack for prepaid)
- Your South African ID or passport
- Proof of residence (for contract customers)
- Your old cellphone number
How to Do a SIM Swap on Vodacom (Prepaid)
Follow these steps if you’re a prepaid customer:
- Buy a new Vodacom prepaid SIM card.
- RICA the new SIM using your ID and proof of address.
- Insert the new SIM into your phone.
- Dial 136 and follow the prompts.
- Choose the option to use your old number.
The SIM swap is usually processed within 3 hours.
How to Do a SIM Swap on Vodacom (Contract)
If you’re on a Vodacom contract:
- Visit your nearest Vodacom store.
- Bring your ID and proof of residence.
- Request a SIM swap with your existing number.
- The consultant will help you complete the paperwork.
- Your new SIM will be activated within 2 to 24 hours.
Doing a SIM Swap with an eSIM
Vodacom supports eSIM for selected devices. To swap to an eSIM:
- Visit a Vodacom store.
- Provide your details and request an eSIM activation.
- You’ll receive a QR code to scan on your phone.
- Follow the activation prompts.
eSIM swaps also require RICA compliance.
SIM Swap Costs and Timelines
- Prepaid: Free to swap; done in under 3 hours.
- Contract: May include a small SIM activation fee; takes up to 24 hours.
Check with your Vodacom store for current charges.
RICA Requirements in South Africa
All SIM cards in South Africa must be registered under the RICA Act. This includes proof of identity and address. Without RICA, you cannot activate your SIM card.
According to Vodacom, “All your services remain unchanged due to the services being linked to your cellphone number and not the SIM number.”
Common SIM Swap Mistakes to Avoid
- Not RICA-registering the new SIM
- Providing incorrect personal information
- Inserting the wrong SIM when dialling 136
- Trying to swap from a foreign SIM card
Always ensure that your new SIM is properly registered.
How to Prevent SIM Swap Fraud
Fraudsters often use SIM swaps to gain access to your banking apps or OTPs. Vodacom has a 2-hour delay for contract SIM swaps to prevent unauthorised access.
Tips to stay safe:
- Don’t share personal details or OTPs
- Watch out for phishing emails or messages
- Contact Vodacom immediately if you receive a SIM swap notification you didn’t request
According to Vodacom: “A fraudulent SIM swap is a type of fraud whereby a fraudster approaches a network operator/service provider, pretends to be the customer and then requests that the targeted cellphone number to be assigned to a new or replacement SIM card.”
When to Contact Vodacom Support
If your SIM hasn’t activated after 24 hours, or you suspect fraud, contact Vodacom:
- Call 135 from a Vodacom phone
- Use the My Vodacom App
- Visit your nearest Vodacom store
Need to replace your Cell C SIM? Follow our step-by-step guide on how to do a SIM swap on Cell C.
Knowing how to do a SIM swap on Vodacom can save you time and stress. Whether you’re replacing a lost SIM or switching devices, follow the steps above to stay connected. Always keep your personal details secure and contact Vodacom for help when needed.
For more info, visit help.vodacom.co.za.
