O2 warns of a new wave of fraudulent SMS messages

O2 security experts have issued a report warning of a new wave fraudulent text messages. In the network of this operator, previously known and new messages have recently begun to appear on a large scale, which try to credulous mobile phone users entice to fill in sensitive data. For example, those needed to log in to online banking. Some versions of malicious messages also concern O2 and its mobile self-service.

“In recent weeks, we have seen a very high level of activity by attackers in our network. They send out thousands of SMS messages to our customers with false alert, that, for example, their SIM card expires and they need to pay a symbolic amount for an extension. Man very easily it will get the impression that it is on a real O2 charging gate. I therefore recommend being very careful and not clicking on links in similar SMS messages and blocking the sender and reporting it to the operator. It will help us stop fraudsters,” warns Radek Šichtanc, director of security at O2.

Examples of fraudulent SMS messages

• Dear customer, your services have been restricted at the number 602 XXXXXX. Services will be restored after the update in https://is.gd/id_5V8S2_cislo_602xxxxxx. Thank you for understanding. Your mobile operator.
• O2CZ: Hello, your SIM card expires tomorrow. Make the required payment today. Pay using the link and get a free month of the plan – https://o2-sms.jomsom.com
• [CeskaPosta] Unsuccessful attempt to deliver parcel 10865345CZ. Go to www.ceskaposta.new-tracking.com and confirm your address for the next delivery!
• PRE informs, Pavel Novák. You are entitled to housing allowances and a saving energy tariff. Get: https://mpsv.pw

Fraudulent SMS messages always contain a URL link that refers to fake websites, masquerading as real websites, e.g. payment gateways, MY O2, courier companies, banks, etc. It is quite difficult to recognize that these are fraudulent websites, because they look very similar to the real thing. In this way, fraudsters primarily try to obtain payment card information or login data to various portals and applications. In recent days there have also been reports of scams in the name of O2.

O2 advises: What is the best way to protect yourself?

• If you receive an SMS from an unknown source, think about whether it is trusted source. Note the errors or typos in the message. If in doubt, Do not open the SMSdo not click on the attached link and SMS us forward to 720 002 002 to check. We recommend deleting the SMS afterwards.
• SMS messages with information about winning a competition that you did not enter are suspicious. Do not click on the “claim your prize” link.
• Personal or login data fill in the MY O2 self-service only on the O2 website https://moje.o2.cz/ or use the mobile app login.
• Never do not forward or share your passwords or access data.
• You are fine secure the mobile phone and other electronic devices with a lock and password.
• Install mobile apps only from verified sources
• If you receive a suspicious or harassing call, do not continue the call. Then report it Police of the Czech Republic.
• If you suspect any abuse or are unsure, please contact us via O2 Guru or on the customer line. Do not use links or contacts from suspicious SMS.
• Get protection O2 Security, It will protect your mobile phone and fixed internet. look at videohow the protection works exactly.

O2’s effort is to recognize and stop this fraudulent behavior as quickly as possible. O2 is therefore introducing a new contact number 720 002 002. Customers can forward suspicious SMS messages to this number. SMS messages forwarded in this way are routed directly to the Security department for which they are sent the content of SMS messages with important information and evidence of fraudulent activity. Based on them, O2 can block the source of sending SMS messages, and above all, block sent URL links within the O2 Security service and thus protect other customers.

Which of the above messages have you already received?

Source: O2