Virgin Media O2 users are being warned about a new email scam circulating in the UK. The fraudulent emails are exploiting the recent closure of O2’s 3G mobile platform, which has been replaced by faster 4G and 5G services. While most customers are unaffected by the platform change, scammers are taking advantage of the situation.

The deceptive emails, appearing to be from Virgin Media O2, prompt recipients to upgrade their SIM cards under the guise of improving network speed and strength. The messages, designed with official branding, have subject lines like “Alert: Switch to Your New 5G SIM for a Faster, Stronger Network.”

Virgin Media O2 emphasizes that these emails are not legitimate and should not be interacted with. Customers are advised against clicking on any links, replying, or providing any personal information. The company urges recipients to delete the emails immediately and report them by forwarding to phishing@virginmediao2.co.uk.

This phishing scam aims to trick individuals into divulging sensitive information by impersonating a trusted organization. In some cases, scammers may even send a SIM card via courier and request access using a four-digit PIN. The email may also direct users to log in to the O2 app with a provided password, potentially connecting them to fraudsters through a “Contact Us” button.

If successful, scammers could access private accounts, gather personal data for identity theft, or disrupt financial stability. To stay safe, individuals should verify the authenticity of emails from service providers by contacting them directly through official channels and seeking a second opinion if unsure.