Page 49 - JDPA Volume 02, Issue 02

Journal of Defence & Policy Analysis Volume 02, Issue 02, December 2023

technologically improbable and legally prohibited. Telecommunication com-
panies employ robust security measures, including unique serial numbers and
stringent identity verification during SIM card issuance, making duplication
highly unlikely., while unauthorized access to bank accounts linked to mobile
numbers can occur, it almost always stems from social engineering, not SIM card
duplication. Scammers manipulate victims into divulging sensitive information
like PINs or OTPs, enabling them to bypass security measures and access funds.
It is important to distinguish between genuine technological vulnerabilities and
social engineering tactics. The viral podcast’s claims conflate these distinct con-
cepts, causing needless worry among the public.

Despite Sunday Morning’s extensive article debunking the myth of SIM card du-
plication and manipulation, its impact remained limited due to several factors.
» Firstly, the article’s length may have dissuaded some readers from fully
engaging with the content.
» Secondly, concerns with the article’s persuasiveness might have hin-
dered its dissemination.
» Finally, the lack of commentary from telecommunication operators
cited within the article as crucial stakeholders could have undermined
public trust in the information presented and further discouraged shar-
ing.

Additionally, the internal approval processes within telecommunication compa-
nies, as you aptly noted, can pose significant challenges in securing timely re-
sponses from relevant personnel. This complex approval chain, often involving
multiple touchpoints, may lead to delays in communication, potentially missing
the window of opportunity to actively engage with and address public concerns
raised in the article.

The timeline of disinformation can be categorized as,
1. Pre-COVID
2. COVID
3. Post-COVID

Pre-COVID

Before the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, disinformation existed, yet its
prevalence did not garner significant attention from a psychological and social
media standpoint. However, with the onset of the pandemic, a notable shift oc-
curred. Individuals found themselves confined to their homes, leading to height-
ened susceptibility to misinformation as they sought engagement in the absence
of other activities.

Faculty of Defence and Strategic Studies, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka
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