How to Spot Fake NBN Upgrade and Faster Internet Offer Calls Targeting Australian Home Offices

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake NBN Upgrade and Faster Internet Offer Calls Targeting Australian Home Offices. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Australian home offices are increasingly targeted by scam calls claiming to offer NBN speed upgrades or faster internet plans. These callers often pretend to be from NBN Co, your internet provider, or a government agency. They may pressure you to provide remote access to your computer, pay an upfront fee, or share personal details. This guide explains how to spot these scams and protect your home office.

Common Warning Signs

• Unsolicited phone calls claiming to be from NBN Co or your internet provider
• Pressure to act immediately to avoid losing a "limited time" upgrade offer
• Requests for remote access to your computer using software like AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or QuickSupport
• Requests for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer
• Callers asking for your NBN account details, Medicare number, or banking information
• Vague or incorrect technical details about your current internet connection

Quick Fix Steps

1. Hang up immediately if you receive an unsolicited call about NBN upgrades or faster internet.
2. Do not provide remote access to your computer to anyone who calls you unexpectedly.
3. Do not share personal, financial, or NBN account details over the phone.
4. Block the caller's number on your mobile or landline.
5. Verify any legitimate offers by contacting your internet provider directly using details from your bill or their official website.

Detailed Instructions

How NBN Co Actually Contacts Customers

NBN Co is a wholesale provider and does not sell internet plans directly to home users. They will not call you to offer speed upgrades, sell equipment, or request remote access to your devices. Your retail service provider (the company you pay your monthly internet bill to) handles plan changes and upgrades.

Verifying a Legitimate Offer

1. Ask the caller for their name, company, and a reference number.
2. End the call without providing any information.
3. Locate your most recent internet bill or visit your provider's official website.
4. Contact your provider using the phone number listed on your bill or website—not a number given to you by the caller.
5. Ask if there are any available upgrades or promotions for your address.

Blocking Scam Numbers

On iPhone

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap Recents.
3. Tap the Info button next to the scam number.
4. Scroll down and tap Block this Caller.
5. Tap Block Contact to confirm.

On Android

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap Recents.
3. Long-press the scam number.
4. Tap Block or Block/report spam.
5. Confirm by tapping Block.

On Landline

1. Contact your landline provider to ask about call blocking services.
2. Enable Caller ID to screen unknown numbers.
3. Consider registering your number on the Do Not Call Register at donotcall.gov.au.

NBN Co will never call you unsolicited to offer faster internet, request remote access to your computer, or ask for payment over the phone.

If you have already given a scammer remote access to your computer or shared banking details, disconnect your device from the internet immediately and contact your bank. Change any passwords that may have been compromised.

Reporting Scams

You can report NBN scam calls to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au. This helps authorities track and shut down scam operations targeting Australian consumers and businesses.

If you have been a victim of cybercrime, including remote access scams or financial fraud, report it to ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au. If your personal identity has been compromised, contact IDCARE at idcare.org for support.

If you suspect your computer or accounts have been compromised, Open a Ticket with 220 Internet Services for assistance securing your home office.

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