An urgent warning has been issued to millions of iPhone and Android users by O2 regarding a new scam targeting UK customers. The fraudulent message notifies users that their SIM cards will be deactivated due to their alleged failure to accept updated Terms and Conditions. The scam employs urgent language and appears to originate from an official O2 number, making it harder to detect 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.” Along with the deactivation threat, the message contains a link directing victims to a counterfeit website aimed at stealing personal information. Scammers may use this data to access MyO2 accounts and exploit stolen passwords to breach other online accounts.
Recipients of messages claiming their O2 SIM is expiring should refrain from clicking any links. Instead, they should verify the message’s authenticity by accessing their account through the official O2 platform or contacting the network directly.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, cautioned that scammers are employing increasingly sophisticated tactics. He emphasized the importance of vigilance and reporting suspicious messages promptly to prevent scams.
O2 has shared protective measures for customers to follow:
– O2 does not send texts requesting acceptance of new Terms and Conditions or threatening SIM deactivation. Such messages are fraudulent.
– Exercise caution with messages using urgent or threatening language to prompt immediate action.
– Be wary of unexpected messages from unfamiliar numbers, as genuine O2 messages typically display under a verified “O2” sender name.
– Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited texts; instead, directly access the MyO2 app or contact O2 customer service to validate requests.
– If you have clicked on a suspicious link and entered login credentials, change your password immediately to safeguard your account.