An urgent warning has been issued to iPhone and Android users by O2, urging them to be cautious following the emergence of a concerning new scam targeting individuals in the UK.
The scam involves a fraudulent message being sent to devices, alleging that users’ SIM cards are on the verge of deactivation due to their purported failure to agree to updated Terms and Conditions. The deceptive nature of the message is enhanced by its use of urgent terms such as IMPORTANT and NOT, and its apparent origin from an official O2 number, making it challenging to distinguish as a fake communication.
Individuals with an O2 SIM card should be vigilant for the following message: “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 also contains a link that directs recipients to a counterfeit website aimed at extracting personal information. Once scammers acquire this data, they may attempt to infiltrate MyO2 accounts and exploit stolen passwords to access other online accounts.
Recipients who receive notifications claiming their O2 SIM card is nearing expiration should refrain from clicking on any embedded links. Instead, they are advised to access their accounts through the official O2 website or app, or contact the network directly to verify the legitimacy of the message.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, highlighted the increasing sophistication of scammers, emphasizing their utilization of convincing language and fake websites to deceive victims.
O2 has also provided guidance to help customers protect themselves:
– O2 does not send texts requesting customers to accept new Terms and Conditions or threatening SIM deactivation; such messages are fraudulent.
– Exercise caution with messages employing urgent or threatening language to induce hasty actions.
– Be wary of unexpected messages from unfamiliar numbers; genuine O2 messages typically display under a verified “O2” sender name.
– Refrain from clicking on links in unsolicited texts; instead, directly access the MyO2 app or dial 202 from an O2 phone to verify requests.
– In case of clicking on a suspicious link and disclosing login credentials, promptly change the password to safeguard the account.