Calling O2

[Connectthedots]

Hi there, 

Background: after picking up an unknown number (they knew my name and then hung up), I've been getting lots of calls (10 calls all from different numbers as I block and then report them to OFCOM over the last 4 days!). 

I rang 202 from my mobile to seek further advice about it and the O2 representative sent a one-time code via text to "O2UK". I got spooked - I realise I called that number but I still wasn't sure if it was actually O2 or if someone could intercept my call?! 

I then rang O2 via my landline this time and not my mobile (on 0344 809 0202) and explained all the above. She calmly explained that I'd only be asked for a verification code if I rang O2 and I would never be asked for it the other way round i.e. if someone rang me saying they were O2. She then sent two texts, her verification code was sent via "O2 UK" rather than "O2UK". The first text was a security warning, explaining what she had just said and the second was the code. At the end of the call, she sent me some helpful emails but this time to "O2UK" such as O2fraudteam@O2.com" and also explained that I could log into my account directly rather than clicking on links and to be safe could change my password etc. 

I guess my question is it seems that texts from "O2UK" and "O2 UK" both must be legitimate right? I couldn't find any further information on it but O2 asking for you to confirm a verification code if you call them is legitimate right (I've not needed to speak to them since my last contract update and I don't believe I needed to do this)? 

[Bambino]

@Connectthedots Never give any information to a cold caller, no matter who they say they are. 

Block the number and report it free to 7726.
Don’t open any links or enter any information.
O2 advice here:

https://www.o2.co.uk/help/safety-and-security/phishing-and-smishing-advice
https://www.o2.co.uk/help/safety-and-security/unwanted-calls-and-messages
https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

How to block a number:

https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00062352/

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201229

[Enlli]

We had it confirmed on here that if you call on one of the legitimate numbers and they ask for the code then it is OK.

Personally I don't like it, I think it muddies the waters.

But the warning does say someone calling you

 

[MI5]

@Connectthedots 

This came up recently and we were advised that is was OK to give the code to O2 if you called them, but definitely not from a cold call.

I've have texts from both O2UK and O2 UK. both seem to be genuine.