Number porting
Definition
Moving your existing phone number from one carrier or provider to another so you keep the same number.
Number porting, explained
Number porting lets you keep your phone number when you switch carriers. In the US and Canada you request the port from the new carrier, using your account number and a transfer PIN from the old one. In the UK you text the old provider to get a PAC code and give it to the new one, and the switch usually completes within a working day. Porting is also how some people move a mobile number into a service like Google Voice. Because a fraudulent port works like a SIM swap, set a port-out PIN or lock where your carrier offers it.
Related terms
SIM swap
An attack where someone gets your carrier to move your number to their SIM so they receive your calls and codes.
Carrier
A mobile network operator or provider that issues phone numbers and delivers calls and texts.
Line type lookup
A check that tells an app whether a number is mobile, landline or VoIP, and often which carrier owns it.