The Integrated Circuit Card Identifier (ICCID) is a unique serial number that identifies each SIM card internationally. It is a crucial piece of information when transferring a mobile number, troubleshooting connectivity issues, or activating a new device. This identifier typically consists of 19 or 20 digits and is essential for mobile network operators to properly manage subscriptions.
Accessing this identifier is important for a variety of reasons. It facilitates seamless mobile number portability between different providers. It is also critical for diagnosing network-related problems and ensuring proper service activation. Historically, locating this identifier required physical access to the SIM card itself; however, modern operating systems provide alternative, software-based methods for retrieval.