An urgent warning has been issued to iPhone and Android users by O2, advising them to remain vigilant following the discovery of a concerning new scam targeting UK consumers.
The scam involves a fraudulent message sent to devices, claiming that users’ SIM cards are on the verge of deactivation due to their alleged failure to accept updated Terms and Conditions. The message uses urgent language like “IMPORTANT” and “NOT,” and appears to originate from an official O2 number, making it challenging to distinguish as a fake.
For individuals with an O2 SIM card, it is crucial to be cautious. The deceptive message states, “O2UK: IMPORTANT: Your SIM Card(s) will be inactive on 04/06/2026 because you have NOT signed our Terms and Conditions. Logon to sign.”
In addition to the deactivation threat, the message includes a link that leads recipients to a counterfeit website aimed at stealing personal information. Scammers may exploit this data to access MyO2 accounts and potentially breach other online accounts using stolen passwords.
Recipients who receive messages alleging that their O2 SIM is about to expire should refrain from clicking any links. Instead, they should access their account through the official O2 website or app, or reach out directly to the network to verify the message’s authenticity.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, cautioned that scammers are evolving in sophistication, employing believable and urgent appeals combined with convincing fake websites to target victims.
Virgin Media O2 is actively implementing measures to help individuals evade scams, such as blocking scam texts and malicious websites and enhancing fraud monitoring on online accounts. Mackenzie emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious messages promptly to combat scams effectively.
O2 has also shared guidance to assist customers in safeguarding themselves:
– O2 will never send texts requesting users to accept new Terms and Conditions or threatening SIM deactivation, as these are fraudulent.
– Exercise caution with messages containing urgent or threatening language designed to induce quick actions.
– Be wary of unexpected messages from unfamiliar numbers. Genuine O2 messages typically display under a verified “O2” sender name, not a standard mobile number.
– Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited texts. Instead, directly access the MyO2 app or dial 202 from an O2 phone to verify the legitimacy of a request.
– If you have unknowingly clicked on a suspicious link and entered login details, promptly change your password to secure your account.
