SK Telecom has reported that nearly 20 million subscribers have registered for its USIM Protection Service, following a recent data leak that affected user information. This surge in registrations, which reached 19.9 million as of Sunday morning, underscores the urgency surrounding the incident. The company had discovered signs of a large-scale cyberattack on April 18, which triggered immediate action to protect users.
In response to the breach, SK Telecom offered free universal subscriber identity module (USIM) chip replacements to its entire user base of 25 million. This includes over 2 million customers using budget mobile plans. Although the company emphasized that replacing the chip adds a layer of physical security, it also promoted the USIM Protection Service as a digital safeguard offering the same level of protection.
Moreover, SK Telecom reported that more than 956,000 subscribers had already replaced their USIM chips. In addition, 7.6 million more have made online appointments for USIM replacement. This trend shows that customers are taking proactive steps to secure their data after the breach. Nevertheless, many users have opted instead for the USIM Protection Service, which guards against illegal financial activity.
To expand accessibility, SK Telecom introduced automatic enrollment in the USIM Protection Service for subscribers who may struggle with digital tools. This move targets vulnerable user groups such as the elderly or those without smartphones. Company officials stressed that this effort is part of a broader plan to boost inclusive digital safety measures.
Additionally, SK Telecom will temporarily halt new subscriber sign-ups at its 2,600 retail outlets nationwide. The company confirmed that this decision was made at the request of the South Korean government. Authorities urged telecom firms to prioritize user security by focusing on USIM replacements and tightening account verification procedures.
To assist customers traveling abroad, SK Telecom also set up temporary customer service booths at Incheon International Airport. These facilities allow travelers to replace their USIM chips before boarding flights. Company staff on-site are also helping users understand the benefits of the USIM Protection Service and how to activate it.
However, users enrolled in international roaming services cannot access the protection program. The company therefore urged these customers to physically replace their USIM chips before departing South Korea. SK Telecom stressed that this precaution is especially critical given the heightened risks of cross-border cybercrime.
The telecom giant continues to face questions about how the attack occurred and whether more user data was compromised. While it has not released full details of the breach, cybersecurity experts are calling for greater transparency and stricter internal safeguards. Government regulators have also launched their own investigation into the cyberattack, signaling that accountability will be a top priority.
Meanwhile, SK Telecom has assured the public that it has upgraded its monitoring systems to detect suspicious activity more quickly. It is also working with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to track the source of the breach. The company has vowed to improve its digital infrastructure to prevent future incidents and maintain user trust.
As the telecom sector faces rising threats from hackers, the swift public response to the USIM Protection Service reflects growing awareness of digital safety. With more than 19.9 million users already enrolled, SK Telecom has made a significant move to shield customers and rebuild its reputation. Still, questions remain about whether these measures can fully restore confidence in the wake of such a damaging breach.
