O2 now blocks suspected scam calls for free

What changed

O2 used to flag suspected scam calls. After a trial this autumn, it now blocks them across its network on compatible phones. The system is AI-based and run with Hiya. Calls O2 suspects are spam, rather than fraud, still come through but are flagged. O2 says it's the first UK operator to block all calls suspected as scam, and the only major UK provider not to charge extra for advanced call flagging and blocking (Virgin Media O2).

Who it affects

• O2 customers on compatible phones. It's rolled out automatically.
• O2's announcement doesn't say whether brands that use O2's network (such as giffgaff, Tesco Mobile or Sky Mobile) get the same blocking. Ask your provider.

What it costs

£0. O2 says it's free for all customers.

What to do

1. On O2? You don't need to do anything.
2. Still get a dodgy call or text? Report it free to 7726. O2 says reports help it block numbers faster.
3. Weighing up a network? Scam protection is worth counting, but price and coverage still matter most.

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Sources

• Virgin Media O2: O2 upgrades AI scam defences to block 3 million scam calls a week, 30 Oct 2026 (primary)

Checked 5 November 2026.

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