Millions of iPhone and Android users are being warned about a new scam targeting UK users by O2. The scam involves a fraudulent message claiming that customers’ SIM cards will be deactivated due to a failure to accept updated Terms and Conditions. The message uses urgent language and appears to be from an official O2 number, making it difficult to spot as fake.
The 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.” Additionally, the message includes a link that leads to a fake website aiming to steal personal information for potential account breaches.
Customers are advised not to click on any links in messages claiming their O2 SIM is expiring. Instead, they should verify through the official O2 website or app, or directly contact the network to confirm the message’s authenticity.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, highlighted the increasing sophistication of scammers in using believable tactics to target victims. Virgin Media O2 is actively working to combat scams by blocking fraudulent texts and websites, as well as enhancing fraud monitoring on online accounts.
O2 has provided guidelines for customers to safeguard themselves:
– O2 does not send texts requesting acceptance of new Terms and Conditions or threatening SIM deactivation.
– Beware of messages with urgent or threatening language to pressure quick actions.
– Exercise caution with unexpected messages from unknown numbers; genuine O2 messages usually come from a verified “O2” sender.
– Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited texts; instead, verify requests through the MyO2 app or by calling 202 from an O2 phone.
– If you have unknowingly entered login details after clicking a suspicious link, change your password immediately to secure your account.