How to Spot Fake NBN Connection and Internet Outage Scam Calls

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake NBN Connection and Internet Outage Scam Calls. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Scammers frequently target Australian small businesses and home office users by pretending to be NBN Co or an internet service provider. These calls usually claim there is a problem with your NBN connection, your internet speed, or an alleged outage in your area. The goal is to trick you into giving remote access to your computer, installing malicious software, or paying for unnecessary services. This article explains how to spot these scams and what to do if you receive one.

Recognise Common Scam Tactics

• Claiming your NBN connection has been compromised or hacked.
• Saying your internet speed is slow and they need to "fix" it remotely.
• Warning of an imminent outage or disconnection unless you act immediately.
• Offering a refund or compensation for an alleged service issue.
• Pressuring you to act quickly and not hang up or call back later.

Identify Red Flags

• The caller demands remote access to your computer using software such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or QuickSupport.
• The caller asks for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer.
• The caller requests your MyGov login, Medicare details, or NBN account password.
• The caller ID shows a local number, but the voice or accent sounds overseas or automated.
• The caller cannot verify your account details or service address correctly.

What NBN Co and Your Provider Will Never Do

• Call you out of the blue to request remote access to your computer.
• Ask for your internet banking password or credit card security code.
• Threaten immediate disconnection unless you pay over the phone.
• Ask you to download software to "fix" your connection during an unsolicited call.

If You Have Already Engaged With a Scammer

1. End the call immediately and do not call back any number they provide.
2. If you gave remote access, disconnect your computer from the internet by turning off Wi-Fi or unplugging the Ethernet cable.
3. Run a full security scan using your installed antivirus software.
4. Change passwords for any accounts you accessed while the scammer had remote access.
5. Contact your bank immediately if you provided payment details or made a payment.
6. Report the incident to Scamwatch at https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/.

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