LG Uplus gets physical on USIM security update

LG Uplus threw open the doors to a USIM replacement programme which thousands of customers signed up for as it tackles potential weakness in IMSI number security. The Korean operator stated it is offering the free upgrade to bolster IMSI protections by using random numbering. ChosunBiz reported the operator previously used part of customers’ phone numbers in its system, which raised security concerns. LG Uplus stated at least 157,811 customers booked a store visit to replace their USIM in a process it opened on 8 April and extra staff would be on hand to ease the exchange. ChosunBiz explained the plan appeared designed to avoid reportedly chaotic scenes at retail outlets of rival SK Telecom when it was taking remedial action to a major data breach in 2025. Lee Jae-won, VP and head of the Consumer Division at LG Uplus, stated the USIM exchange is intended to give customers “greater peace of mind” about the security of their service. The operator last month stated it was turning to subscriber concealed identifier (SUCI) technology to overhaul its IMSI security. SUCI is “a 5G security technology that transmits the IMSI” in an encrypted format, “rather than exposing it directly”. LG Uplus explained it initiated the moves following a review which found potential weaknesses, with the USIM scheme the culmination of an IMSI redesign programme commenced in June 2025. The post LG Uplus gets physical on USIM security update appeared first on Mobile World Live .