SCAMwatch (www.scamwatch.gov.au) advise they are receiving reports with a new twist on the computer remote access scam, with callers now claiming to be from (or affiliated with) Telstra or BigPond.

This is a variation on an existing scam in which scammers, apparently operating out of overseas call centres, falsely claim to be making tech support calls from Microsoft or Windows. The scams typically work in the following manner:
– Victims receive a scam call out of the blue and the caller claims to be from a large telecommunications or computer company/brand such as Telstra, BigPond, Microsoft or Windows;
– Callers tell the victim that their computer has been sending them error messages or that it has a virus;
– They may mention false problems with victims’ internet connection or phone line, which they say may have affected the victims’ phone and computer’s recent performance. They may also claim that victims’ broadband connection has been hacked.
– They will request remote access to the victim’s computer and if a victim say yes, will run a ‘scan’ that shows up a fake virus;
– They will try to trick victims into buying unnecessary software or a service to ‘fix’ the computer. They may also ask for personal and bank/credit card details; and
– The scammer may initially sound professional and knowledgeable however they will be very persistent and may become abusive if you don’t do what they ask.

Advice on how to stay safe from these scammers:
– Telstra has advised that it does not request credit card details over the phone to fix computer or telephone technical problems, and that it is not affiliated with any companies that do.  Telstra will also not call requesting personal details;
– If you receive a phone call out of the blue about your computer and requesting remote access – hang up – even if they mention a well-known company such as Telstra;
– Never give an unsolicited caller remote access to your computer;
– If you have given remote access to your computer, or you fear that your computer has been hacked, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable computer technician;
– Never give your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you made the call and the phone number came from a trusted source;
– Make sure your computer is protected with regularly updated anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall – research first and only purchase software from a source that you know and trust;
– If you have fallen victim to a scam or you receive a lot of unsolicited emails and phone calls consider changing your email address and phone numbers; and
– If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.

Scams, such as this, can be reported to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission via the ‘report a scam’ link on their SCAMwatch website (www.scamwatch.gov.au) or by calling 1300 795 995.

Tasmania Police Media & Communications
(03) 6230 2296