- Scam
One contributor reported a scam call from 02 8359 2118 (0283592118) claiming to be from Optus, requesting remote computer access to fix internet issues.
Optus Impersonation Reports for 02 8359 2118
A contributor has reported receiving a call from 02 8359 2118 (also written as 0283592118) from someone claiming to represent Optus. The caller attempted to convince the recipient to access their computer, citing urgent internet issues that required technical intervention. This is a classic tech support scam pattern where impersonation of a major Australian telco combined with a callback request creates pressure for the victim to grant remote access to their device.
What the Caller from 02 8359 2118 Claimed
The caller identified themselves as being from Optus and stated there was a problem with the recipient's internet connection. Rather than offering to troubleshoot over the phone, the caller specifically requested that the recipient get on their computer to allow remote access. This tactic is designed to bypass the natural scepticism people have when refusing to share passwords or access codes - instead, the scammer attempts to make the victim feel like they are initiating the connection themselves.
The contributor who received the call from 0283592118 immediately recognised the request as suspicious and did not comply with the instructions.
Why This Scam Is Effective
Optus is one of Australia's largest telecommunications providers, making it a credible-sounding organisation to impersonate. When a caller claims your internet is down and offers an immediate fix, the natural response is often to want help. The request to get on your computer feels like a reasonable technical support step, which makes it harder for victims to spot the deception. However, legitimate Optus support staff will never cold-call and request remote access without you initiating the contact first.
What to Do If You Receive a Call from 02 8359 2118
If 02 8359 2118 calls you:
- Do not: Grant remote access to your computer, share passwords, or download software the caller recommends
- Do not: Return the call to the number that contacted you
- Do: Hang up immediately if the caller asks you to access your computer
- Do: Verify directly with Optus by calling their official customer service number (13 00 13) or visiting optus.com.au
- Do: Block the number 02 8359 2118 on your phone if you receive repeated calls
- Do: Report the call to Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) and the ACMA (acma.gov.au)
How to Report 02 8359 2118
If you receive a scam call from 02 8359 2118 (0283592118), report it using these Australian government resources:
- Scamwatch: scamwatch.gov.au - Australia's official consumer fraud reporting portal
- ACMA: acma.gov.au - Report the call to Australia's communications regulator
- Reverseau: Community reports on Reverseau help other Australians recognise and avoid scams from numbers like 02 8359 2118
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Bloke claimed to be from Optus, wanted me to get on computer to fix internet, obvious scam
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WRITE A REVIEWFrequently Asked Questions
Why would someone impersonate Optus when calling 02 8359 2118?
Optus is a major Australian telco with millions of customers, so claiming to be from Optus gives the scammer instant credibility. When someone calls about internet problems and identifies as Optus staff, victims are more likely to trust them. The report about 02 8359 2118 shows how this impersonation is combined with a request for computer access to create urgency and bypass normal caution.
Is it safe to let someone remote in to my computer if they claim to be from Optus?
No. Legitimate Optus support will never cold-call and ask for remote access without you initiating contact first. If you call Optus directly (13 00 13) and they need to troubleshoot, they may then request remote access on your terms. If 02 8359 2118 or any unknown number asks for computer access, hang up immediately and call Optus directly using the official number.
What should I do if I already let someone from 02 8359 2118 access my computer?
Act immediately. Change all your passwords, enable two-factor authentication on sensitive accounts (email, banking, myGov), and run antivirus and anti-malware scans on your computer. Contact your bank and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity. Report the incident to Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) and consider reporting to the ACMA (acma.gov.au). If you suspect financial fraud, contact your bank's fraud team right away.
Can I verify if a call really came from Optus by calling them back?
Yes, but do not call back the number that contacted you (02 8359 2118). Instead, hang up and call Optus directly using the official customer service number 13 00 13 or visit optus.com.au. This ensures you reach genuine Optus staff and can report the scam call from 0283592118 to them directly.
Why did the person claim there was an internet problem if I hadn't reported one?
Scammers use this tactic to create urgency and make the request seem legitimate. By claiming there's already a known problem, they skip the step of explaining why they're calling. The contributor who reported 02 8359 2118 recognised this as a red flag immediately, which is why they didn't fall for it. Real ISP support only contacts you if you've reported a fault or if there's a known network outage.
Should I block 02 8359 2118 after receiving this scam call?
Yes. Blocking 0283592118 is a good precaution to prevent repeated calls. Most phones allow you to block a number directly from your call history. After blocking, report the number to Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) and the ACMA (acma.gov.au) so authorities can investigate and warn other Australians.