How this scam works
Some one calls you and pretending to be from Telstra Support. The caller claims that you need to take immediate action to avoid your internet connection being terminated or disconnected, as your computer has been hacked or infected with malware and is threatening Telstra’s internet infrastructure.
They will ask you to either allow them remote access to your computer, pay a fee for them to fix the problem, or get you to download a software that they claim will fix the problem.
If you provide your financial details or give remote access, you might find a lot more money taken out of your bank account than you agreed to, with some victims reporting losing over $5,000 from multiple withdrawals. Your computer may also be infected with malicious software, giving scammers access to your personal details stored on the device (including bank account information).
Note: you don’t have to be a Telstra customer to be called by these scammers. You don’t even have to own a computer!
Protect yourself
If you receive a phone call  from someone claiming to be a representative of Telstra and their call relates to a problem with your internet connection, just hang up.
If you have doubts about the identity of any caller you can call them directly. Don’t rely on contact details provided by the person – find them through an independent source such as a phone book or online search.
Remember that you can still receive scam calls even if you have a private number or have listed your number on the Australian Government’s Do Not Call Register (link is external). Scammers can obtain your number fraudulently or from anywhere it has been publicly listed such as in a phone book.
Always keep your computer security up to date with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall. If you are not sure please contact me. If I can help you over text or email I will help free of charge.
Never give your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you made the call and the phone number came from a trusted source.
If you think your computer’s security has been compromised, use your security software to run a virus check.
If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.