- Scam
One report of 02 8271 1043 (0282711043) impersonating Optus with fake discount offer, then sending phishing emails/texts about Microsoft password reset.
Optus Impersonation and Phishing Reports for 02 8271 1043
A contributor has reported receiving a call from 02 8271 1043 (also written as 0282711043) where the caller claimed to offer an Optus discount. What started as an apparent customer service offer escalated into a phishing attack. After the initial call, the contributor received suspicious emails and text messages requesting a Microsoft password reset - a classic phishing tactic designed to harvest login credentials.
The number is allocated to Optus Networks Pty Limited in NSW, which makes this impersonation particularly deceptive. The caller's ability to reference Optus and follow up with coordinated phishing attempts via email and SMS suggests a sophisticated scam operation rather than a random spam call.
What the Caller from 02 8271 1043 Did
According to the report, the caller claimed to represent Optus and offered a discount to the contributor. When the contributor declined to proceed with password reset requests sent via email and text, the caller became abusive, using offensive language. This behaviour - switching from a friendly sales tone to hostility when refused - is a deliberate manipulation tactic designed to pressure or shame targets into compliance.
The phishing attempt itself involved follow-up messages asking the contributor to reset their Microsoft password. This is a common credential harvesting method where scammers create urgency around account security to trick people into entering passwords on fake login pages.
Report Details and Timing
The report was submitted in January 2026, indicating this scam was recently active. The multi-channel approach - combining an initial phone call with follow-up emails and SMS messages - shows coordination across communication platforms. This is typical of organised phishing campaigns that aim to increase the likelihood of at least one message getting through and being acted upon.
What to Do If You Receive a Call from 02 8271 1043
If 02 8271 1043 calls you:
- Do not: Accept discount offers from unsolicited calls, click any links in follow-up emails or texts, or reset passwords after such calls
- Do: Hang up immediately, block the number, and verify any Optus account issues by calling Optus directly using the number on your bill or their official website
- Do: Never provide passwords, PINs, or security codes to callers or in response to unsolicited messages
What to Do If You Receive an SMS from 02 8271 1043
If you receive phishing texts from 02 8271 1043:
- Do not: Click any links in the message, reply to confirm your number is active, or provide any personal or account information
- Do: Delete the message immediately, block the number, and report it to your mobile provider as spam
- Do: Forward the SMS to 0429 999 888 (ACMA's SMS reporting service) to help protect other Australians
How to Report 02 8271 1043
If you receive scam calls or phishing attempts from 02 8271 1043, report them to:
- Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) - Australia's official scam reporting service run by the ACCC
- ACMA (acma.gov.au) - The Australian Communications and Media Authority regulates phone scams and telemarketing
- ReportCyber (cyber.gov.au) - Australia's Cyber Security Centre accepts reports of phishing and online fraud
- Optus directly - Contact Optus customer service to report the impersonation and protect your account
- Reverseau - Contribute your experience here to help other Australians identify this number and similar scams
Help others by sharing your experience with (02) 8271 1043!
WRITE A REVIEWRatings Distribution
What Our Users Reviewed
caller claimed to give Optus discount then sent dodgy emails and texts about resetting Microsoft password, when I said no got called a whore
Help others by sharing your experience with (02) 8271 1043!
WRITE A REVIEWFrequently Asked Questions
Why did the caller from 02 8271 1043 become abusive when I declined?
The shift from friendly to hostile is a deliberate pressure tactic. Scammers use anger and insults to shock targets into compliance, hoping shame or fear will override your judgment. The contributor reported exactly this behaviour from 02 8271 1043 - when they refused the password reset, the caller became verbally abusive. Recognise this as a red flag that you're being manipulated, and hang up immediately.
Is 02 8271 1043 a real Optus number?
The number 02 8271 1043 (0282711043) is allocated to Optus Networks Pty Limited in NSW, but this does not mean Optus staff are making the calls. Scammers often spoof or mimic legitimate company numbers to appear trustworthy. The contributor's report makes clear the caller was not a genuine Optus representative - real Optus staff will never ask you to reset your Microsoft password, and they won't become abusive when you decline requests.
What should I do if I clicked a link from a message supposedly about Microsoft password reset?
If you clicked a link from 02 8271 1043 or related SMS and entered any passwords, change your passwords immediately on official Microsoft and Optus websites. Use a secure device and go directly to the official site rather than clicking any emailed or texted links. Also check your bank and email account for suspicious activity. Consider enabling two-factor authentication on all important accounts to add an extra security layer.
Why do scammers impersonate Optus specifically?
Optus is one of Australia's largest telecommunications providers with millions of customers. Scammers choose well-known companies like Optus because people are more likely to trust a call from a familiar brand name. The contributor received a call from 02 8271 1043 claiming an Optus discount - the familiarity of the brand name made the initial contact more convincing, which is exactly why the scammer chose to impersonate Optus rather than an unknown company.
Can I trust caller ID if it shows an Optus number like 02 8271 1043?
No. Scammers can spoof caller ID to display legitimate company numbers, including Optus numbers like 02 8271 1043. If you're unsure whether a call is genuine, hang up and call the company directly using the number on your bill or their official website. This is the safest way to verify if they actually tried to contact you. The contributor received a spoofed call claiming to be from Optus - never assume caller ID alone proves legitimacy.
Should I report this to Optus as well as government agencies?
Yes. Report 02 8271 1043 to both official agencies and Optus directly. Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) and ACMA (acma.gov.au) track patterns to identify organised scam rings, while Optus can flag the impersonation internally and warn their own security team. Reporting to Optus also protects your account - they can verify no changes were made and strengthen security on your services if needed. The more organisations aware of this number's behaviour, the faster it can be stopped.