Does eSIM store personal information? How to protect your data
When deciding to use eSIM for travel, many Esim Cheap customers ask the question: “Does eSIM store my personal information?” This is a completely legitimate concern in an era where security and privacy issues are increasingly important. This article will answer your questions in detail about storing personal information on eSIM, helping you feel more secure when choosing a mobile connection solution for your trip.
I. Does eSIM store personal information?
No. The eSIM chip does not, by nature, directly store personal information such as name, passport number or other identifying data.
Instead of storing user information, eSIM only stores the technical information necessary for your device to connect and authenticate with the mobile network. Personal data only appears during the registration process or is stored by the service provider, not in the eSIM itself.
II. What information is stored on the eSIM chip?
The eSIM chip only stores technical information about the mobile network profile – that is, the technical information that helps the device connect to the network operator, such as the subscriber identification number (IMSI), network operator code (MNC), data access point (APN), etc.
The information stored by the eSIM chip includes:
eSIM profile, that is, the identification and configuration information of the network operator that the user subscribes to.
ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) – this is the unique identification number of the SIM. Each eSIM has a unique ICCID code, usually 19-20 digits long, which helps the network operator identify exactly which subscriber is connected.
IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity): international mobile subscriber identity number. IMSI allows the mobile network to identify who you are when your device requests a connection, especially important when you are roaming or traveling abroad.
Security keys and authentication codes: are encrypted strings of characters that act as “passwords” to ensure that only valid devices and carriers can communicate with each other.
III. Where is personal information related to eSIM stored?
Your personal information when using eSIM is not stored on the chip, but is stored in two main places: on your device and on the service provider’s server.
On your mobile device: the operating system (iOS, Android) manages information such as the name you give to your eSIM profile, data usage settings, and which eSIM you choose to use as your primary connection. This information is located in the system settings and you can view, edit, or delete it at any time. For example, when you install eSIM Gigago.vn for a trip to Japan, you can name your profile “Japan Travel” – this name is only saved on your phone, not sent anywhere.
On the eSIM provider server: personal information is stored on a secure server system, in compliance with data protection regulations. This is where your registration information, payment information and usage data are stored, encrypted and strictly protected.
IV. What information does the network operator / eSIM provider store?
When you register and use eSIM for travel, providers like Gigago.vn need to store some information to operate the service and support customers such as:
Email address to receive activation QR code and instructions.
Phone number to receive notifications or emergency support (depending on the provider)
Usage data, eSIM activation time, and remaining package duration. are also recorded for package management. Note that the provider does not store detailed information about which websites you visit, what you view or what you do on the internet.
Payment information is stored depending on the method you choose. One feature is that reputable providers often use international secure payment gateways and comply with PCI DSS standards to protect customers’ financial information.
Payment by credit/debit card: the system can save the last 4 digits of the card and the expiration date (do not save the entire card number or CVV code for security reasons)
Payment via e-wallet or bank transfer: transaction information will be saved for comparison when necessary.
V. Is eSIM safe in terms of information security?
Compared to physical SIM, eSIM is considered to be more secure in terms of security.
Because eSIM is integrated into the device and cannot be removed, the risk of theft or physical copying is almost non-existent.
The process of transmitting and installing eSIM profiles is encrypted according to the global security standards set by GSMA. However, security risks may still arise if users download eSIM from untrusted sources or use devices that do not have fully updated software.
The ability to remotely wipe is an outstanding security feature of eSIM. If you lose your phone, you can contact the eSIM provider or remotely delete the eSIM profile yourself through your account (if the service supports it)
V. How to protect personal information when using eSIM for travel
You should buy eSIM from reputable providers with clear privacy policies and transparent reputations such as Gigago.vn.
When receiving the eSIM QR code via email, make sure that you do not share this information with others.
After the trip ends, you should delete the eSIM from the device if not
