Why Is eSIM Safer Than a Physical SIM Card?

A major benefit of using a travel eSIM is improved security—it's more durable and offers better protection if your device is stolen. That’s why companies like Apple have started removing SIM card slots in U.S. models like the iPhone 14–16 series.

One of the key advantages of using a travel eSIM is enhanced security – both in terms of durability and protection in case of theft. It’s no coincidence that some brands, like Apple in the U.S., have already started releasing smartphones without SIM card slots (e.g., iPhone 14-16, 14-16 Plus, Pro, and Pro Max).

So what exactly makes eSIM a safer choice for travelers? Find out below.

Phone Theft: Why Is eSIM More Secure?

Losing your phone or having it stolen while traveling is unfortunately quite common. However, an eSIM offers significant security advantages compared to a Regular SIM card:

  • Non-removable. Unlike a SIM, an eSIM is embedded (basically, it's a mini chip that you activate via a QR code when you buy a plan). It cannot be removed/inserted into another phone. This means a thief won’t be able to access your banking apps, passwords, or other sensitive data.
  • Remote management. You can remotely disable the eSIM and lock your phone, cutting off the thief’s internet access and preventing them from using your device/mobile data.
  • No phone number. Many travel eSIMs, like those from our TooSIM company, provide only mobile data without a phone number (however, users can optionally set up call forwarding/use a second eSIM from a local carrier, like Vodafone or T-Mobile, for voice services alongside the travel data eSIM). This means that even if your phone is stolen, the thief cannot receive SMS messages or calls, nor intercept authentication codes for websites or banking apps. 

Faq

What Makes eSIMs Different From Physical SIM Cards?
An eSIM can be activated online and lets you store multiple digital profiles on your phone. Unlike a Regular SIM card, it doesn’t need to be inserted. Basically, an eSIM is a built-in microchip that just needs to be linked to a mobile plan.
What Happens if I Lose My eSIM?
An eSiM is a microchip built into your phone, so unlike a Physical SIM card, it can’t be lost. The only way to lose it is by deleting the digital profile or losing the phone itself.
What to do in case you lost your phone?
In this situation you can block either the eSIM or the entire smartphone. To deactivate your eSIM, please contact us at TooSIM. Also, remotely lock your phone using the «Find My iPhone» (Apple)/«Find My Device» (Android) options.
eSIM vs Physical SIM Card — What’s Better for Travel?
The eSIM is a more convenient and low-risk option. It can be activated online and doesn’t require physical insertion or removal like a traditional SIM card. This is an important advantage when you're traveling, as the risk of accidental loss is reduced. Also, frequently removing and inserting a Regular SIM card increases the chance of damaging the SIM slot. In contrast, an eSIM is embedded directly into the phone, making it more durable since there’s no constant physical contact or wear and tear.