The National Broadband Network Company (NBN Co) says scammers are “increasingly taking the opportunity” to impersonate NBN Co staff – and they are targeting people living in retirement villages.
One of the most common scams involves a call from a company offering to connect you to an NBN service and asking for payment with an iTunes gift card.
NBN Co never make unsolicited calls or door knock to sell broadband services – and while they may call people who are listed on the Medical Alarm or Fire and Lift registers, the Company says they never request payment or bank account details during these calls.
Don’t give out personal information
So how can you protect yourself?
- Don’t share your bank or personal details with an unsolicited caller or with those who door knock claiming to be from NBN Co and trying to sell you an nbn™ service or seek payment for similar services;
- If you think you have been a victim, report the scam to your bank or financial institution, and the police straightaway;
- If you have any questions about these types of scams or need more help, call IDCARE on 1300 432 273; and
- To protect others, report scams to the ACCC via the SCAMwatch report scam page here.
With almost $28,000 stolen by scammers pretending to be NBN staff last year, it’s advice worth following.
