AT&T Port-Out Protection: Account Lock Explained

Someone who takes over your phone number can reset passwords and read your codes. AT&T’s Wireless Account Lock adds a step that makes that harder.

By Siddharth ShankarUpdated October 21, 2026

Your phone number is a key to many accounts. If a criminal moves it to their own SIM, they can receive your text codes and reset your passwords. This is called a SIM swap or a port-out scam, and carriers have added locks to fight it.

What AT&T added

According to CyberInsider’s report from July 2025, AT&T launched a Wireless Account Lock, a security toggle in the myAT&T app. The lock “must be actively toggled by the user before changes can be made,” so an attacker with stolen login details still faces an extra step.

What the lock blocks

• Updates to billing information
• Number port-outs, which move your number to another carrier
• Device upgrades

You can unlock the account at any time, for example to make a change yourself or to authorise one for a family member.

Who can use it

The report says it is available for postpaid consumer wireless accounts through the myAT&T app. Business accounts get a separate Business Account Lock managed by administrators in the online account portal. Prepaid accounts reportedly have similar protections, so prepaid users should check their account tools for a comparable setting.

How to turn it on

What about the transfer PIN?

A separate number transfer PIN is the code a new carrier asks for when you move a number. A 2022 report on T-Mobile’s changes noted that Verizon and AT&T already required PINs for porting out. The CyberInsider report does not describe how AT&T’s PIN works with the lock, so check the myAT&T app or AT&T support for the current process before you switch carriers.

Warning signs of a port-out or SIM swap

• Your phone suddenly loses service while others nearby have signal.
• You receive texts about a SIM change or port request that you did not ask for.
• You are locked out of accounts because codes are not arriving.
• You see password reset emails you did not request.

If this happens, contact AT&T from another phone, then secure your email and bank accounts. See SIM swap and phone number fraud statistics and what to do if your phone number was in a data breach.

Questions to ask AT&T

• Is my account type covered by the Account Lock, and where is the setting in my app?
• How do I get a transfer PIN if I decide to move to another carrier?
• Can I add a passcode or extra verification for store and phone requests?
• What happens if someone claims to be me in a store?

Writing down the answers once gives you a plan if the worst happens. Keep the account holder name, email and phone number on file up to date, since those details are used to verify you.

Reduce what criminals can learn about you

SIM swappers often start with personal details. Limit where your number and address appear. See how to check if your phone number is public and temporary phone numbers for verification.

Carrier tools change often, so follow the labels you see in the app.