LG Uplus said on the 5th it sent 10.68 million text messages ahead of implementing USIM (subscriber identity module) updates and free replacements. So far, 64.1% of all customers have received the text notice.
LG Uplus will implement USIM updates and free replacements for all customers starting on the 13th. The company recognized in June last year that the subscriber identity number (IMSI), which is linked to phone numbers, follows certain rules and could be vulnerable to security risks. In response, it plans to apply random numbers to the IMSI to raise the defense layer so that subscriber information cannot be identified or locations tracked from outside.
This text notice was carried out to help customers understand the USIM update and free replacement procedures and receive actions suited to their situations. LG Uplus began sending notices sequentially on the 30th of last month. On the 6th–7th, it plans to send additional notices to a total of 5.98 million people, including 4.8 million general mobile network operator (MNO) customers and 1.18 million mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) customers. Whether each customer is subject to an update or replacement can be checked starting on the 8th on the U+one app and the website.
USIM updates can be carried out without visiting a store from the 13th through the U+one app or the LG Uplus website. Customers who want to update or replace at a store can make a reservation in advance through the "store visit reservation" service in the U+one app or on the website and then visit starting on the 8th.
An LG Uplus official said, "We are carrying out text notices, consultations, and on-site preparations together so customers can understand USIM-related measures more accurately and use them without inconvenience," and added, "We will secure sufficient USIM supplies and establish a stable delivery system to ensure there are no setbacks in customer protection."