O2 “inactive SIM” text scam: do not click the link
O2 has warned about a new text message scam where fraudsters pretend your SIM card is about to become inactive because you have not accepted new terms and conditions.
The message sends people to a fake O2 website and asks them to “log in”. The aim is to steal genuine MyO2 usernames and passwords so fraudsters can take over the account.
If you receive a message like this, do not click the link. Forward the text to 7726 instead.
The message O2 is warning about
O2 gave this example of the scam message:
“O2UK: IMPORTANT: Your SIM Card(s) will be inactive on 04/06/2026, because you have NOT signed our Terms and Conditions. Logon <SITE REMOVED> to sign.”
This is the main warning sign: it combines urgency, a threat that your SIM will stop working, and a link to a fake login page.
The fake site may look convincing, but it is designed to collect your O2 login details. If criminals get those details, they may be able to access your MyO2 account, view personal information, make account changes, or attempt further fraud.
Other versions may look similar
The exact wording can change, but the pattern is usually the same:
- It claims your SIM card is about to expire, be suspended, or become inactive.
- It says you need to accept new terms and conditions, update your details, reactivate your SIM, or confirm your account.
- It says you must act quickly to keep your number or service working.
- It includes a link to “log in”, “verify”, “update”, “reactivate”, or “confirm” your account.
- The website may ask for your username, password, card details, personal information, or one-time passcodes.
These scams work because phone numbers matter. Most people use their mobile for banking, email, WhatsApp, two-factor codes, delivery updates, and family contact. A message saying the number is at risk can feel urgent.
What to do if you get one
- Do not click the link.
- Do not reply to the message.
- Forward the text to 7726. This is the UK reporting number used by mobile networks.
- Delete the message after reporting it.
- If you are worried, open the official O2 app or type the official O2 website address yourself. Do not use the link in the text.
The same advice applies if the message claims to be from another mobile network. Use the official app, official website, or the number printed on a bill or bank card-style account document. Do not trust the link in the message.
What if you already clicked?
Clicking the link does not always mean damage has been done. The risk depends on what happened next.
If you only opened the page and closed it, you are probably fine, but it is still worth being careful. If you entered any details, treat it more seriously.
If you typed in passwords, card details, security answers, or one-time passcodes:
- Change the affected password from a different device if possible.
- Contact your bank or card provider if payment details were entered.
- Contact your mobile provider using the official app, website, or a trusted phone number.
- Watch for unexpected account changes, new direct debits, password reset emails, or messages about SIM changes.
- If your phone suddenly loses signal for no obvious reason, contact your network provider straight away.
Why reporting to 7726 helps
Forwarding scam texts to 7726 helps mobile networks investigate and block malicious senders and links. It is free to use on UK mobile networks.
You can remember it because 7726 spells “SPAM” on a phone keypad.
A simple rule
If a text message creates urgency and asks you to click a link, slow down.
Open the company’s official app or website yourself. If the warning is real, it should appear there too.