An urgent warning has been issued to millions of iPhone and Android users by O2, urging them to be cautious of a new scam targeting UK customers.
The scam involves fraudulent messages claiming that users’ SIM cards are at risk of deactivation due to failure to accept updated Terms and Conditions. The messages use urgent language and appear to be from official O2 numbers, making them difficult to identify as fake.
Users with O2 SIM cards should watch out for 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.”
In addition to the deactivation threat, the message contains a link leading to a fake website aimed at stealing personal information. Scammers may use this data to access MyO2 accounts and breach other online accounts using stolen passwords.
Customers who receive messages about expiring O2 SIM cards should refrain from clicking on any links. Instead, they should verify the message’s authenticity by accessing their account through the official O2 website or contacting the network directly.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, highlighted the increasing sophistication of scammers, cautioning users to be vigilant against their tactics.
To protect customers, O2 has advised the following:
– O2 does not send texts demanding acceptance of new Terms and Conditions or threatening SIM deactivation.
– Exercise caution with messages using urgent language to pressure quick actions.
– Avoid trusting unexpected messages from unknown numbers; genuine O2 messages typically come from a verified “O2” sender name.
– Never click on links in unsolicited texts; use the MyO2 app or call 202 from an O2 phone to verify requests.
– If you have entered login details on a suspicious link, change your password immediately to secure your account.