On iPhone, is activating an eSIM essentially like installing a configuration profile or enrolling in MDM (i.e., anything added under Settings → General → VPN & Device Management or changes to system/security settings), or is it just a subscriber profile on the eUICC? Also, are there any privacy/security disadvantages to using an eSIM compared to a physical SIM?
iPhone 16 Pro Max
No. It only installs a carrier profile and adds carrier settings. And no disadvantages that I can think of, but many benefits. You can add up to 8 and use up to two at one time, much easier than switching out physical sims so this is handy with travel. There's also no risk of it being stolen, lost, damaged, or switched.
eSIM has better security, as compared with SIM.
This particularly as an unauthorized eSIM swap is harder.
Like SIM, eSIM is unrelated to VPN and device management profiles, and is itself not a profile.
Are you encountering any security issues or concerns that might lead you to ask about eSIM security, and — if so — how long have these been arising? This as similar questions can progress in several directions too, such as eSIM and SIM implementation details, discussions of improving local security, questions about cellular network settings including carrier off-load Wi-Fi networks (which are not profiles, but use profile-related mechanisms), and cases that involve reports of security issues or compromises.
eSIM on iPhone: Like a config profile/MDM? Any privacy/security downsides vs physical SIM?
