An urgent warning has been issued to millions of iPhone and Android users by O2 regarding a new scam targeting UK customers. The scam involves a fraudulent message claiming that customers’ SIM cards are at risk of deactivation due to alleged 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 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.” Additionally, the message contains a link that leads to a fake website designed to steal personal information, which scammers may use to access accounts and compromise online security.
Customers are advised not to click on any links in messages claiming their O2 SIM is expiring. Instead, they should access their accounts through the official O2 website or app or contact O2 directly to verify the message’s authenticity.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, emphasized the increasing sophistication of scammers in using convincing tactics to target victims. Virgin Media O2 is taking measures to combat scams, including blocking malicious websites and enhancing fraud monitoring on online accounts.
O2 has shared tips for customers to protect themselves, including being cautious of urgent messages pressuring quick actions, not trusting unexpected messages from unknown numbers, avoiding clicking on suspicious links, and changing passwords immediately if login details have been compromised.