Stop
If someone calls you claiming to be from O2, make sure you check who they are by asking where they’re calling from. Remember, we’d never call you and ask for one-time passcodes, passwords, PINs or personal information like your bank details. If you have any doubts, call us on 202 (free from your O2 mobile) or on 0344 809 0202 (standard UK rates apply).
Send to 7726
Think you might have got a text from a scammer? Don’t just ignore it – take a few seconds to forward it to us on 7726 (which spells SPAM on your phone’s keypad). Reporting messages this way is free, keeps you safe and allows us to block fraudsters’ numbers so we can prevent or shut down similar scams faster in future.
Speak out
Let your friends and family know if you’ve come across a scam. By telling others, you can help make sure they’re never caught off guard.
Have you been hacked ?
Think a fraudster might have access to your O2 account? Check out our fraud advice.
Get Fraud advice
What are viruses and malware?
Malware is short for malicious software. It can damage or delete your files, copy your passwords, or take over your computer to send illegal videos or spam emails.
There are several types of malware, including viruses, spyware, worms and Trojans.
Viruses can delete or corrupt your files, steal passwords, or allow to take over your computer.
To minimise the risk of getting a virus:
Don't open emails from people you don't know
Don't open files unless you know exactly what they are
Keep your operating system up to date
Keep your anti-virus software up to date and scan weekly
Install software like McAfee Security that identifies risky websites
Back up all your important files.
Most malware is spread by people installing it accidentally. Sometimes, malware can install itself on a machine. To prevent this:
Install updates – all operating systems release regular patches designed to fix bugs and close security holes
Install anti-virus software – scan your computer regularly and make sure the software's virus definitions are up to date
Scan CDs, DVDs, memory sticks and external hard drives before using their programs or files
Use Microsoft Office's macro protection – some malware disguises itself as Word or Excel macros
Enable pop-up window blockers
Delete suspicious emails – don't read them or reply.
Be wary of 'free' software
Watch out for software promoted as 'free' – before you download, make sure the website is trustworthy. It's much safer to go directly to the software provider's site and download from there.
Look out for fake emails and attachments
If one of your contacts has a virus on their computer, you might get an email from them containing a virus. Be on the lookout for suspicious subject lines or anything odd-sounding in the email itself. When in doubt, check with your friend to see if they actually sent it.
To check whether you have a virus, scan your computer with up-to-date anti-virus software.
If you find a virus, warn your contacts not to open any unusual emails they receive from you. After you delete a virus, always change the passwords to your online accounts.
Viruses on your mobile
The risk of getting a virus on your mobile is much lower than on your computer, but some operating systems, like Android, are still vulnerable.
There are several free apps you can download from the Google Play store to keep your Android mobile virus-free, including Avast, Lookout and TrustGo.
FluBot is a text message scam that’s part of a large-scale smishing attack. Currently, it affects Android devices and is downloaded under the guise of a text with a link to a tracking app or to retrieve a voicemail. The texts can appear to be from companies like DHL, Argos and Amazon.
If you click the link in the text, the malicious software may automatically download and take over your device, allowing infected texts to be sent to your contacts without your knowledge. The fraudster could also gain access to your messages and online banking details.
You can find detailed security advice at Get Safe Online, or read the McAfee guide to viruses and how to deal with them.
If you're not sure about any techy terms, check out our jargon buster
Last updated: 13/02/2025
