Virgin Media O2 users are being warned about a concerning new scam that is on the rise. The telecommunications company has raised an alert as they have noticed a significant increase in fake call center numbers being generated by artificial intelligence (AI) to target individuals.
Reports indicate that millions of users might have already fallen victim to dialing these fraudulent numbers, leading them to cybercriminals who attempt to steal sensitive information such as banking details.
Research suggests that approximately 13% of consumers in the UK have encountered bogus customer service numbers through search engines or AI platforms.
Virgin Media has highlighted that criminals are leveraging AI tools to manipulate search results, displaying counterfeit phone numbers and websites to deceive users into disclosing personal data for fraudulent activities.
Due to the growing reliance on AI-generated search results, hackers find it easier to deceive unsuspecting individuals. Virgin Media emphasizes the importance of only using authentic service numbers provided on official company websites, apps, or bills to avoid falling prey to such scams.
For those seeking assistance from O2, the recommended method is to dial 202 from an O2 device, while Virgin Media customers can reach out by calling 150 from a landline.
Additionally, it is advised to exercise caution when encountering numbers from search engines, social media platforms, or AI tools. It is crucial never to disclose security codes or personal information to unsolicited callers, regardless of their claims of legitimacy.
Murray Mackenzie, Director of Fraud Prevention at Virgin Media O2, emphasizes the risk posed by AI-generated fake numbers, urging vigilance among users. The company is actively blocking known scammer numbers on its network and utilizing AI technology to flag over 1 billion suspicious calls. To combat scams effectively, everyone is encouraged to report suspicious numbers to 7726 for prompt action against fraudsters.