How to Spot Fake NBN Technician Visit Scams Targeting Australian Home Offices

Scams & Phishing KB-678

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake NBN Technician Visit Scams Targeting Australian Home Offices. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

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Common Causes

Scammers are increasingly targeting Australian home office users by posing as NBN technicians. These fraudsters may call, email, or arrive unannounced at your door claiming there is an issue with your internet connection. Their goal is to trick you into granting remote access to your computer, installing malicious software, or paying for unnecessary services. Knowing how to identify a fake NBN visit can protect your business data and personal information.

How NBN Technician Scams Work

NBN Co is a wholesale provider and does not sell services directly to the public. Because of this, NBN technicians will never call you unprompted to report a fault, request remote access to your device, or ask for payment over the phone. Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming your connection will be disconnected immediately unless you act right now.

Red Flags to Watch For

An unsolicited phone call claiming to be from NBN Co or your internet provider.
A request to install remote access software such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or QuickSupport.
A technician arriving at your home without a pre-booked appointment.
Requests for immediate payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or direct bank transfer.
Pressure to provide your MyGov details, Medicare number, or credit card information.
Poor grammar or spelling in emails and text messages.

Quick Fix Steps

End the call or ask the visitor to leave immediately.
Do not provide any personal or financial details.
Do not install any software or grant remote access to your computer.
Contact your actual internet service provider using the phone number on your monthly bill.
Report the incident to Scamwatch via the Scamwatch website.

Detailed Instructions

Verifying a Technician's Identity

Ask for the technician's name and the company they represent.
Request to see official photo identification.
Call your internet service provider directly using a number from a previous bill or their official website—not a number provided by the visitor.
Confirm whether a service appointment was scheduled for your address.
If you cannot verify their identity, do not allow them inside your home office.

What to Do If You Granted Remote Access

Disconnect your computer from the internet immediately by unplugging the Ethernet cable or turning off Wi-Fi.
Uninstall any remote access software the scammer asked you to install.
Run a full system scan using your trusted antivirus software.
Change the passwords for your email, banking, and business accounts from a different, secure device.
Contact your bank if you provided any financial details or made a payment.

NBN Co will never contact you to request remote access to your computer or ask for payment to fix a connection issue.

If a caller claims your internet will be cut off within minutes, it is a scam. Legitimate providers provide written notice and scheduled appointments.

How to Report the Scam

Visit the Scamwatch report page.
Provide details of the phone number, email address, or name used by the scammer.
If you believe your business data has been compromised, contact your IT support provider for security assistance.

Still Having Issues?

Need more help? If the issue persists after trying these steps, please open a support ticket and our team will assist you.

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