Fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to obtain personal data from unwary users. A new example of this is an SMS that supposedly comes from O2 and asks users to verify their data. But be careful: This message does not come from O2!

The SMS in question reads:
“Hello, your O2 contracts will be canceled and blocked at 7:00 p.m.!
Verify your data immediately on: https://login.02-center.de
Your 02 Service Team”.
At first glance, the news may seem worrying. But there are clear indications that this is an attempted fraud.
Recognize counterfeiting in the name of O2
- Typos and unusual wording: The message contains strange wording and obvious grammatical errors, such as the missing word after "Verify yours immediately."
- Incorrect URL: The web address provided in the SMS is similar to the official O2 website, but has an error (“02” instead of “O2”).
- Unsolicited request for data verification: Reputable companies like O2 usually do not ask their customers to verify their data via SMS, especially not with a threat to cancel the contract.
Telefonica warns of malware
The mobile Internet offers us many advantages, from communication to social media to online shopping. But like any system, our smartphone can also become a target for fraudsters. One of the latest scams is fake news that asks people to click on a link - sometimes with devastating consequences.
What happens after clicking?
If you comply with such a request, malware will immediately be installed on your device. This enables the attackers to use your smartphone to send SMS messages to countries outside Europe, for example. Such actions can result in high costs, which - if you don't react quickly - can become a nasty surprise on your next bill.
Safety first: How to clean your device
It is possible that there are variants of a Trojan in circulation that cannot be easily uninstalled. It is therefore recommended to clean the smartphone completely :
- Activate airplane mode: To ensure that no further data is transferred, immediately switch your device to airplane mode.
- Back up data: Before you start deleting, back up all important data. This includes photos, contacts and chat histories. Many Android users will find that much of their data is already stored in the Google Cloud. Remember that you can use your Wi-Fi during the backup as long as the smartphone is in airplane mode.
- Factory reset: Go to your device's settings and select the "Reset" option, then select "Factory data reset (Erase everything)". If this is not possible, try resetting the device using the power and volume buttons. You can find further instructions here
- Restore data and reinstall applications: After the reset, you can put your previously backed up data back on your smartphone. Make sure that you do not restore the old apps, but only your personal data. All desired apps should be reinstalled from trusted sources such as the Google Play Store.
Final tip
Always be alert and suspicious when asked to click on unknown links. Your data and financial well-being may depend on it.
This might also interest you:
Phishing on Facebook: How scammers steal your identity, profile, group and page
The “Hello” phenomenon: Why silent readers in Facebook groups are encouraged to interact
Digital Detective: Unmasking false information
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