EE mobile network users have been issued an urgent warning about a fraudulent ‘payment reminder’ message. EE Limited, previously known as Everything Everywhere Limited, is a mobile network operator and internet service provider based in the UK.
The firm operates as part of BT Consumer, a division of BT Group. Founded in 2010, it has grown to become the UK’s third-largest mobile network operator, with 21.2 million customers. Given its sizeable customer base, people are being cautioned about emails appearing to come from ‘EE’.
Norfolk Trading Standards has issued a fresh alert warning EE customers about a wave of suspicious emails currently doing the rounds. These emails purport to be a ‘Payment Reminder’ claiming that ‘your last bill payment was not settled in full and there remains an outstanding balance of £4.27 on your account’.
The email goes on to state that ‘to avoid any potential service interruption’ payment must be made via an embedded link. These emails are completely fraudulent, and anyone who clicks the link will be taken to a fake EE website, which will attempt to steal personal, account and financial information or install malware onto their device, reports Wales Online.
The organisation cautions: “The criminals sending these emails often use small amounts as the figure to be paid as they believe people are more likely to make payment to avoid issues with their service but would question requests for larger amounts.
“Our advice is always to be wary of claims made in unexpected email approaches and never click on links or open attachments if approached in this way. It is highly likely that versions of this email will be circulating claiming different outstanding amounts.”
If you harbour any doubts regarding the security of your online account, always access it directly through the official website or app. Alternatively, contact your service provider’s customer support team using a number from a recent bill, their official website, or the app. Never use contact details contained within these emails.
Any suspicious emails can be reported by forwarding them to report@phishing.gov.uk. Scams can also be reported via our partners, the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on freephone 0808 223 1133.
Phishing, vishing, and smishing are deceptive methods used to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card numbers via emails, letters, phone calls, or text messages that appear to be from a legitimate company. Vishing refers to scams conducted over the phone, while smishing involves scams carried out through SMS or text messages.
The EE website offers guidance on recognising scams and the correct steps to take. EE states: “We’ll never ask you for your PIN or password by text or email.”
It further advises: “Don’t click on links unless you’re 100% sure they are genuine. Take a moment to stop and think and trust your instincts.
“If it looks too good to be true or looks suspicious, there’s probably a catch. Don’t give away any of your personal details or give anyone access to your computer or mobile – if you think you might have provided your bank account details, contact your bank immediately.”
Should you suspect you’ve received a fraudulent message, EE has outlined a number of steps that customers ought to follow: