An urgent warning has been issued to iPhone and Android users, urging caution against a new scam targeting customers of O2 in the UK. The scam involves deceptive messages claiming that users’ SIM cards are on the verge of deactivation due to a failure to accept updated Terms and Conditions. The messages use urgent language and appear to be sent from official O2 numbers, making them difficult to distinguish as fake.
If you are an O2 customer, be wary of a message stating, “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.” This message contains a link that redirects users to a fraudulent website aimed at stealing personal information. Scammers may use this information to access MyO2 accounts and potentially breach other online accounts using stolen passwords.
Customers who receive notifications about expiring O2 SIM cards should refrain from clicking any provided links. Instead, they should verify the message’s authenticity by accessing their accounts through the official O2 website or contacting the network directly.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the increasing sophistication of scammers, who employ convincing tactics and fake websites to deceive victims. Virgin Media O2 is actively working to combat scams by blocking malicious texts and websites, enhancing fraud monitoring on online accounts, and encouraging individuals to report suspicious messages promptly.
O2 has offered advice to help customers protect themselves:
– O2 does not send texts requesting acceptance of new Terms and Conditions or threatening SIM deactivation.
– Exercise caution with urgent or threatening messages pressuring immediate action.
– Be wary of unexpected messages from unknown numbers, as genuine O2 messages typically come from a verified “O2” sender.
– Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited texts; instead, verify requests directly through the MyO2 app or by calling 202 from an O2 phone.
– If you have entered login details on a suspicious link, change your password immediately to safeguard your account.
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