O2 has issued a warning about a new text message scam that attempts to trick people into handing over their account details. The mobile network provider said fraudsters are sending messages claiming customers' SIM cards are about to become inactive because they have not accepted updated terms and conditions.
How the Scam Works
The scam message directs people to a fake website designed to look like an official O2 page, where they are asked to log in using their account details. However, O2 said the messages are fraudulent and are being used by criminals to steal usernames and passwords and gain access to customer accounts.
An example of the scam text reads: "IMPORTANT: Your SIM Card(s) will be inactive because you have NOT signed our Terms and Conditions."
O2's Response and Advice
O2 stressed it is not contacting customers by text asking them to accept updated terms and conditions to prevent their SIM card being deactivated. The company said it has already blocked more than one billion scam messages from reaching customers and has stopped thousands of messages linked to this latest scam. It has also taken action to block access to known fraudulent websites across the O2 and Virgin Media networks.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, said: "Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, using increasingly believable and urgent requests to target victims alongside convincing fake websites, demonstrating just how clever their tactics can be."
He added: "Every report to 7726 helps us act faster to shut down scams at source, so we're urging everyone to play their part and forward suspicious messages."
What Customers Should Do
O2 is advising customers to be wary of unexpected texts that create a sense of urgency or threaten consequences if immediate action is not taken. People are also being warned never to click links contained in unsolicited messages. Instead, customers should use the MyO2 app or contact O2 directly if they are unsure whether a message is genuine.
Anyone who receives a suspicious text can report it by forwarding the message to 7726 free of charge. Customers who believe they may have entered their details on a fake website are being urged to change their password immediately.
The warning comes as telecoms firms and anti-fraud organisations continue efforts to tackle scam texts and online fraud targeting UK consumers.
