Britons are being cautioned to remain alert as a surge in sophisticated fraudulent activities targets smartphones, computers, and tablets nationwide. Cyber fraud is on the rise, posing risks of personal data theft and financial losses to online scammers, as highlighted by Virgin Media O2.
Recent data from the telecom company’s Scam Index indicates that approximately 18 million adults in the UK have fallen prey to scams in the last three months. June 2026 witnessed a peak in suspicious calls reported by the network, prompting a renewed call for public vigilance.
Common scams currently in circulation include fake delivery notifications, online shopping fraud, account suspension alerts, and banking scams. Additionally, criminals are employing tactics such as bogus tech support calls, fake lottery winnings, and HMRC scams that either demand money or promise tax refunds.
A growing concern is the notorious “friends and family” impersonation scam, where fraudsters impersonate known individuals to solicit urgent financial assistance. Virgin Media O2 advises against sharing personal information or sending money to unknown contacts without confirming their identity.
Scammers are increasingly utilizing authentic-looking websites, persuasive messages, and a sense of urgency to manipulate victims into clicking malicious links or divulging sensitive details.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the evolving nature of fraud schemes and their detrimental effects on victims. The company is actively working to safeguard customers by blocking scam texts, flagging suspicious calls, and implementing preventive measures.
Virgin Media O2 has thwarted millions of scam attempts and urges the public to report suspicious texts and calls by forwarding them to 7726. This reporting service, available across all UK mobile networks, aids in analyzing scam patterns, identifying new fraud trends, investigating malicious numbers, and enhancing blocking systems to enhance protection against future threats.