EE customers are being warned about a resurgence of a text message scam targeting them with fake offers of “EE reward points.” The scam, which prompts recipients to click a link to claim these non-existent points before they expire, has been circulating widely, aiming to deceive users into divulging personal information and money. Reports indicate a rising trend in such incidents in recent weeks.
Several EE users have shared their experiences on online forums to caution others. One user recounted falling for the scam after receiving a text about rewards and navigating to a counterfeit EE website. Another user admitted to clicking a link in a text message, realizing it was a scam and swiftly exiting the site.
Cybersecurity company Phonely has observed an uptick in reports on its scam-tracking platform, “Who Called Me,” revealing that the scam messages are being sent from random numbers posing as EE. Phonely is advising mobile users to be wary of unexpected messages regarding rewards, prizes, or expiring benefits.
Bryn Thompson, Phonely’s Marketing Director, emphasized the deceptive nature of these texts, warning that scammers are adept at mimicking legitimate notifications. Thompson urged recipients never to click on links in unsolicited messages and to verify the authenticity of such communications with their mobile providers using official channels.
EE has clarified that it does not operate a points or rewards program and has shared an example of the fraudulent message to help customers identify it. The company’s advice is straightforward: ignore any suspicious messages and refrain from clicking on links embedded in them.
The fraudulent text typically reads: “The EE points program reminds you: Since you are a high-quality user of our company, we will give you some points as a gift. The points will expire in three working days. Please click on the link below to use your points to redeem prizes in time!”
To enhance security, EE reiterated that customers should avoid interacting with unknown links in text messages, refrain from responding or calling the provided number, and abstain from disclosing personal or financial details.
In conclusion, recipients should exercise caution when receiving messages purporting to offer reward points from EE and refrain from engaging with any suspicious links or sharing personal information.