A new scam is “out there” with callers now claiming to be from, or affiliated with, Telstra or BigPond.
SCAMwatch has identified the latest scam as a variation on an existing scam in which scammers operating out of what reports suggest to be overseas call centres, falsely claiming to be making tech support calls from Microsoft or Windows.
In the latest fiasco, SCAMwatch stated that residents will 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. Alternatively they may claim to be from a technical support service provider.
They tell you that your computer has been sending them error messages or that it has a virus.
They may mention false problems with your internet connection or your phone line which they say may have affected your phone and computer’s recent performance. They may also claim that your broadband connection has been hacked.
They will request remote access to your computer and if you say yes, will run a ‘scan’ that shows up a fake virus. They will try to trick you into buying unnecessary software or a service to ‘fix’ the computer. They may also ask you for your personal and bank/credit card details.
SCAMwatch stated that 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. And never give an unsolicited caller remote access to your computer.
