27-09-2023 15:29 - edited 27-09-2023 15:54
27-09-2023 15:29 - edited 27-09-2023 15:54
I called O2 from my registered mobile today using 202. I was asked to answer "yes" if I was calling about the line I was calling from and I did so. I was put through to a customer service representative and explained my situation. He then told me I needed to provide a 6 digit code sent via text to access my account. I received the text and informed him that I could not share it, as it came with a warning that O2 staff would not ask for this code. He said "yes, that's fine, ignore the warning message and just give me the code from the second message". At this point I hung up, as I was sure this was not a legitimate call.
I am very concerned that the 202 number, which is supposed to be the safe option, is not connecting to O2. HAs anyone else had experience of this? I am trying to figure out whether my outgoing calls are being intercepted, or whether it is a problem with O2's incoming calls.
27-09-2023 15:42
I think this needs looking into urgently @Dave-O2
27-09-2023 15:52
My apologies, I have confirmed with an o2 representative that this was a legitimate request. I have been nervous about contacting o2 because I have spoken to a number of scammers on my number recently who have also requested the codes. Apparently sharing the code is okay when you have proactively contacted o2, but not when someone has called claiming to be o2.
27-09-2023 15:59
Still sounds VERY worrying, given that the text itself says to not share the code with anyone, even o2.
Please note, this is not customer services and we cannot access your account. Do not publish personal details (email, phone number, bank account).
Link to our guide on how to contact them can be found here
27-09-2023 16:34
27-09-2023 16:34
Absolutely no need for them to have that code. We shall see what the Community Managers say.
Personally I would keep an eye on my account in case there is a rogue employee
27-09-2023 17:21
Thanks for flagging this @MI5, @gmarkj, @Enlli
We'd always recommend that you stay vigilant when it comes to OTACs, which is clearly working as this thread has been created 😁
However in this scenario, as @ee_c has contacted Customer Service directly, this does seem a genuine request, which can happen on some occasions.
Regarding the warning SMS that is sent with the OTAC, as has been mentioned above this warns you not to share the code with anyone who has called YOU, which is the correct advice, as doing this could make your account susceptible if you're targeted by a scammer.
If you want me to double-check your account @ee_c please PM me your mobile number 😊
27-09-2023 18:00
Appreciate the feedback @Dave-O2 👍