O2 is warning millions of UK users to watch out for a new batch of text message scams. Don’t ignore this new alert.
There’s a worrying new alert and it’s not something any of us should ignore. UK network O2 – which is now part of Virgin Media – says it has seen a rapid increase in text scams being sent out to smartphone owners across the UK with many trying to steal personal data and money from unsuspecting consumers.
The company reckons there has been a ‘significant rise’ in attacks, which include parking ticket texts, recruitment messages, fake prize scams, and the infamous “Hi mum” attack. For those not in the know, the ‘Hi mum’ trick is one of the scariest and most profitable for hackers. Scammers send a message pretending to be a family member in trouble and then ask for money – it may sound far-fetched but thousands of pounds has been lost to this type of attack.
Virgin Media O2 says it already blocked more than 600 million dodgy texts but the network says UK phone owners must remian vigilant at all times.
Explaining more, Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2 said: “Scammers aren’t sticking to old tricks; they’re evolving fast, tapping into trending news and targeting vulnerable people with fake prizes, job offers and financial compensation schemes.
“At Virgin Media O2 we’re doing everything we can and have already blocked more than 600 million scam texts from reaching our customers so far this year.
“But with fraud continuing to increase, we’re reminding people to remain vigilant; always be careful when you receive a call or text out of the blue, don’t share personal details with anyone and report suspicious messages for free to 7726.”
If you have a smartphone in your pocket it’s now vital that to pay attention, be careful before clicking on links and don’t respond to any message without thinking first.
Here are 5 attacks to watch out for.
The Hi Mum/Hi Dad text
It’s one of the most common and troubling scams. Thanks to its emotional nature, this attack has been hugely successful for hackers. Things usually start with messages that read, “Hey mum save my new number” or “Hi Dad, did you get this?”
It’s easy to see how some are fooled but be warned. Once a victim starts responding, the crooks try to get money and it’s cost some thousands of pounds.
The gambling and fake prize scams
We all like winning a prize or getting something for free. That’s why these attacks can be so successful. The text messages usually suggest a prize has been won, with one recent example saying, “Your account is now loaded with GBP500 plus 150 FreeSpins. Redeem and play today”. As the old saying goes, if it looks too good to be true, it usually is.
Fake parking fines
Mirror Online recently reported on the rise of worryin parking scams. They appear incredibly real and nobody should feel emabrrased for falling for the. Messages are sent out suggesting a fine hasn’t been paid with a link then included which takes users to an official-lookinhg government website.
Watch out for recruitment text scams
With people on the constant lookout for work, recruitment scams continue to be on thr rise. Messages often promise roles and usually include tempting salaries.
Here’s an example of a text to watch out for.
“Hello, my name is Grace Mitchell, and I am the Human Resources Manager at Serviceplan Group.
“We have reviewed your profile on several online recruitment platforms. Currently, we are offering a flexible part-time position that you can complete during your spare time.
“The daily income ranges from £80 to £300, with payment made immediately upon completion of the data optimisation.”
Car finance texts are on the rise
The recent news about car finance may have some thinking that they might be due a payout. That could be correct but it’s also giving cyber crooks a new way to try and scam people. Here’s the type of message to beware of.
“Our records indicate you could be owed up to ¬£2,382.58 in mis-sold car finance. Check for free”