As technologies advance and change, scams are becoming more and more common (and more and more creative!). Keeping our customers safe is important to us, so we’ve put together some tips on how to protect your wealth by being aware of scam callers; especially those who claim to be from Telstra, Microsoft and the NBN, otherwise known as a ‘remote access scam’.
How does it work?
This kind of scam involves scammers trying to gain remote access to your computer or device in order to steal your personal information. Generally, someone calls telling you there’s a problem with the network in the local area and they need to gain ‘remote access’ to your computer. They’ll ask you to install an application or log onto your computer and give them access, when then allows them to see the information on your device. They might even ask you to complete secretive tasks or say they need help catching a hacker.
These callers are always extremely convincing, and often coerce you into signing into your online banking so they can steal your personal data and money.
Warning signs
- An unknown caller is asking to access your device, possibly claiming to be from Telstra, Microsoft or the NBN.
- The conversation may begin with “we noticed you’re having problems with your computer”.
- The caller is very convincing, persistent and may become abusive.
- They might ask for you for help catching hackers.
- They might ask you to make a transaction in your account.
- They might let you know you’ve received a refund.
- They might ask you to share your security codes or passwords.
- They might ask you to pay a refund in gift cards or bitcoin.
Things to remember
- Never allow anyone access to your devices, not even if they claim to be from a company you have an account with.
- If you receive a call from any business, telco or agency, make sure you independently locate their number instead of calling a number from a message or email. A quick Google search will let you know if you’re speaking to someone on a company number or not.
- Never provide your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you’re speaking with a trusted source. If you’re unsure, ask if you can call them back on the number listed on their website.
What to do if you think you’ve been scammed
- If you believe you may have given remote access to your computer, or you fear that your computer has been hacked, seek help immediately by contacting your bank and report the matter to cyber.gov.au
- You should also seek help from a qualified and reputable computer technician or update your anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Research first and only purchase software from a source you know and trust.
- If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.
- If you have made a payment to a scammer, again contact your bank or financial institution immediately. They may be able to stop the payment for you.
- Report your experience to cyber.gov.au. This helps us and other government agencies warn people about current scams, monitor trends and disrupt scams where possible.
Tell someone you trust. Scams can be scary and they can really rattle your confidence. Most importantly, they aren’t your fault! It might help to talk things through with a trusted friend or family member.