Do I need to return my SIM card to Asurion?
You will not need to return your phone’s accessories to Asurion after getting your replacement device, including the SIM card, unless your carrier specifies you to do so. This is because it saves you the hassle of transferring your account to new SIM cards each time you acquire a new phone or get replacements from the company.
The reason Asurion will usually include a new SIM card with each replacement cellphone device is the low cost, as well as making it easier to keep track of the devices they send to different clients. SIM cards also have sensitive information such as contacts and photos, so there is no need to send it to them even when sending a broken device.
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What should you do with the new SIM card that Asurion sends to you?
The best advice in this case is to keep the SIM card. Since it is your subscriber identifier and is not part of the phone itself, you can keep it on ‘standby’ for as long as you want or when you want to dispose your old SIM card.
It is important to note though, that this rule will not apply if your phone was stolen or lost. In such a scenario, you will get a new SIM card from Asurion, and you will use that SIM card immediately rather than keeping it as a backup option.
What you should send to Asurion when receiving a replacement device
The only item Asurion will require from you is the defective or damaged device, and you must use the prepaid shipping label that comes with the replacement device. It is important to note that they will require you to send the defective device within 10 to 15 days, as this will avoid extra charges on your end – also known as non-return charges.
In the case of a stolen or lost device, you will not need to return the device. The only exception is when the device is found, in which case you should return it through using the prepaid return label that comes alongside your replacement device.
Summary of what to do with an old SIM card when deciding not to send it to Asurion
What to do |
Why |
Erasing the card |
This is the first line of precaution and prevents possible theft of your information. You will require a third-party app to accomplish this task, and ensure the app is non-recoverable. |
Destroying the card |
This is the safest method of protecting yourself if you decide to throw away the SIM card. You can do this through incinerating it, sending it to an incinerator, or smashing it completely. |
Conclusion
Giving back a SIM card, regardless of how old it is, is not a worthwhile option. This is mainly because it carries some sensitive personal information, and Asurion will not need it anyway, because they will tend to sell any collected SIM cards and this may expose your information to vulnerabilities.
FAQs
Will I get a SIM card when getting a replacement phone from Asurion?
Yes, as most devices will include an already-inserted SIM card.
Should I throw away my old SIM card?
In most cases, no – and you will not need to. You can still use the SIM card in another device, since it will likely contain personal information you do not want to expose. If you choose to throw it away, make sure to destroy it completely before doing so.
Should I take the SIM card out before sending a phone back to Asurion?
Yes, you should. Asurion will not have any need for your SIM card, and they will send a new one when sending a replacement device.
Do I have to return my damaged phone to Asurion?
Yes, as it is stipulated in the terms of your contract with them. Failure to do so will result in a penalty – the only exception is when you report that your device is stolen or lost.
