The “Remote Access” Phone Scam Targeting Canberra
How to spot fake support calls and secure your computer yourself.
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Canberra seniors and residents are currently being targeted by a sophisticated phone scam. Here is how to spot it and what to do if you think you’ve been targeted.
The Script: What They Say
You receive a call on your landline or mobile. The caller claims to be from “NBN Co”, “Telstra”, or “Amazon Security”.
They will say something alarming like:
- “Your internet has been compromised by hackers and will be disconnected.”
- “There is a suspicious purchase of an iPhone ($1,200) on your Amazon account.”
- “We accidentally refunded you $500 too much, and we need to log in to fix it.”
The Trap: Remote Access Software
They will ask you to download a program. Common names include TeamViewer, AnyDesk, Zoho Assist, or UltraViewer.
These are legitimate tools used by IT professionals (like us) to help clients. However, when scammers use them, they take control of your mouse and keyboard to access your online banking.
DIY: How to Check & Clean Your PC
If you think you may have let someone in, or just want to be safe, follow these steps immediately:
- Sever the Connection: Immediately unplug your ethernet cable or turn off your Wi-Fi. This physically stops the scammer from doing anything else.
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Uninstall the Tool:
- Press the Windows Key type “Control Panel” and open it.
- Go to Programs and Features (or “Uninstall a Program”).
- Look for TeamViewer, AnyDesk, Zoho, LogMeIn, or UltraViewer.
- Right-click and select Uninstall.
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Run a Virus Scan: Use the built-in Windows Security.
- Search for “Windows Security” in the start menu.
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick Scan (or “Full Scan” if you have time).
- Change Passwords (Crucial): Using a different device (like your phone or tablet – NOT the compromised computer), change your email and banking passwords immediately.
Still Worried? Let Us Perform a Forensic Clean.
Scammers often leave “backdoors” or hidden admin accounts so they can return later, even if you delete the software. They may also install keyloggers to record your new passwords.
If you accessed online banking while they were connected, or if you just want 100% peace of mind, we can help.
Book a Security Audit
We will scan for hidden malware, remove remote access tools, and secure your firewall.
We Provide Security Audits Across Canberra
Gungahlin
Gungahlin, Mitchell, Harrison, Franklin, Palmerston, Crace, Nicholls, Casey, Ngunnawal, Taylor, Moncrieff, Throsby, Ford, Bonner, Amaroo
Belconnen
Belconnen, Bruce, Aranda, Cook, Hawker, Page, Scullin, Weetangera, Macquarie, Florey, Latham, Melba, Spence, Evatt, McKellar, Giralang, Kaleen
Central & South
North: City, Braddon, Dickson, Lyneham, O’Connor, Reid, Campbell.
South: Barton, Kingston, Griffith, Fyshwick, Narrabundah, Red Hill.
Woden & Queanbeyan
Phillip, Mawson, Pearce, Weston Creek, Molonglo Valley.
NSW: Queanbeyan, Jerrabomberra, Karabar, Googong.
Frequently Asked Questions
I hung up on them. Am I safe?
Yes. If you simply hung up and did not download anything or give them access, you are safe. Scammers cannot hack you just by knowing your phone number.
They said they were from NBN Co. Is it real?
No. NBN Co is a wholesaler and will never call you directly to fix your computer or discuss your internet speed. These calls are 100% scams.
Do I need to wipe my computer?
If they had access for a long time, a “Format and Reinstall” (wiping the computer) is the safest option. We can perform this for you while backing up your personal photos and documents first.