Telecommunications and media company Virgin Media O2 warns that there is an increasing trend in fake gambling bonus scams in the UK. Based on the reports and interceptions in August this year, the company also found that recruitment and auto finance scams are on the rise.
The most common type of scam is the fake bonus or gambling-related scam, which claims to offer free credits or reward links, leading users to visit unsafe websites. Victims are often asked to provide personal information, including bank details, to claim the so-called prizes.
Typical cases include:
Your account has been credited with £500 and awarded 150 free spins, redeem now and enjoy: <website>
Congratulations! You have received a summer gift! It expires tomorrow, come and claim it: <website>
The second common method is the "Hi Mom/Hi Dad" scam, where scammers impersonate children and contact anxious parents through a new phone number, asking for a transfer.
The third type is fake parking fines, where scammers claim that if you do not visit a suspicious website and pay, you will face fines or threats of license revocation.
In addition, recruitment scams and auto finance scams are also increasing. Scammers claim to offer high-paying positions or compensation rights, inducing victims to provide personal information, and even demanding payment of service fees to obtain a job or compensation.
Virgin Media O2's Director of Fraud Prevention, Murray Mackenzie, said: "Scammers are constantly innovating, using hot news to target vulnerable groups with fake prizes, job opportunities, or compensation plans. So far this year, we have intercepted over 600 million scam messages, preventing them from reaching customers. By analyzing these messages and issuing alerts, we help the public identify the latest scams and take protective measures."
He reminds the public to stay vigilant: "When you receive an unexpected call or message, do not easily share personal information. You can report suspicious messages for free to 7726."
The company points out that customers can forward suspicious texts or calls for free to 7726 (spelled as "SPAM" on alphanumeric keyboards), applicable to all networks. Some devices (including new iPhones) also have a "Report Junk" feature at the bottom of the messages.
Virgin Media O2 states that by promptly reporting suspicious messages, regulatory bodies and operators can more quickly identify new trends and take measures to prevent the spread of scams.
