Telstra Impersonation Scams: How to Spot Fake Calls and SMS Messages

Telstra impersonation scams are one of the most common types of fraud targeting Australian small businesses and home office users. Scammers pretend to be Telstra representatives via phone calls or SMS messages to trick you into handing over personal details, payment information, or remote access to your computer. These scams often create a sense of urgency, claiming there is a problem with your internet service, an overdue bill, or a security breach on your account.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Do not click any links in unexpected SMS messages claiming to be from Telstra.
2. Do not provide remote access to your computer to an unsolicited caller.
3. Verify the sender by contacting Telstra directly through their official website or app.
4. Delete the message or hang up the call if you are unsure of the caller's identity.
5. Report the scam to Scamwatch.

Detailed Instructions

How to Spot a Fake Telstra SMS

Scam text messages often look official but contain tell-tale signs of fraud. Check for the following before taking any action:

• The message contains a shortened link (such as bit.ly or tinyurl) instead of a direct telstra.com.au address.
• The sender ID is a random mobile number rather than a verified "Telstra" short code.
• The message uses urgent language, such as "your service will be suspended" or "immediate payment required."
• You are asked to confirm personal details, credit card numbers, or passwords via a link.
• The message contains spelling or grammatical errors, or uses American spelling instead of Australian English.

How to Spot a Fake Telstra Phone Call

Phone scammers often use spoofed caller IDs to make it look like they are calling from Telstra. Be suspicious if the caller:

• Claims there is a fault on your line or a virus on your computer and asks for remote access.
• Demands immediate payment over the phone to avoid disconnection.
• Asks you to purchase gift cards or transfer money to a "secure account."
• Pressures you to act quickly and will not let you call them back on an official Telstra number.
• Requests your My Telstra login credentials or two-factor authentication code.

What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call or SMS

1. End the call or do not reply to the text message.
2. Do not call back any number provided in the suspicious message.
3. Open a web browser and navigate directly to https://www.telstra.com.au by typing the address manually.
4. Log in to your My Telstra account to check for any genuine notifications about your service or bill.
5. If you believe you have shared personal or payment information, contact your bank immediately.
6. Report the incident to Scamwatch.

How to Block Scam Numbers on Your Device

On an 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.

On an Android Device

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

On Samsung Devices

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three-dot menu and select Settings.
3. Tap Block numbers.
4. Enter the scam number and tap the Add icon.