Optus ScamWise Tracks Fraudsters and Empowers Customers to do the Same

• Technology to protect customers
• Scam attempts are on the rise
• Optus ScamWise recognises trending scams and prevents future circulation 

Identifying a scam will be easier for Optus customers with Optus ScamWise, a new feature that helps recognise trending scams and prevents future circulation.

The National Anti-Scam Centre has detected a concerning increase in the number of reports of fake websites that look like genuine online retail stores belonging to many big-name, high street brands.[1] 

Optus is blocking over 2 million calls and almost 2.8 million SMS a week. By providing customers with the visibility of trending scams and how many scam SMS and calls Optus is blocking on a weekly basis, customers can be on alert and even share the information with friends and family.

Through Optus ScamWise, customers can report a suspicious text by sharing it in the My Optus App. Reported SMS will be analysed by Optus’ scam team, with inauthentic messages blocked to prevent future circulation of that content across the Optus network. The customer reports will also help to inform Optus’ SMS blocking rules.

This new feature is part of Optus’ efforts to combat scams and protect customers with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) revealing more than $3.1 billion was stolen from Australians in 2022[2].

Optus Managing Director of Customer Solutions, Matt Williams, said, “What we’ve been seeing is that scammers are shifting their attacks to mobile and personal communication channels to reach Australians. They incorporate relevant themes in their messages and evolve their tactics with world or seasonal events. 

“We are working to better protect our customers and make it harder for scammers to prosper. Optus ScamWise not only helps protect the Optus customer community but also lets them help protect their wider circle too.

“We know that there is a lot of work to be done and we remain committed to playing our part to address this national priority alongside leading businesses, government, and the broader community.”

Through a series of initiatives, Optus has also blocked more than 380 million scam calls and 130 million SMS scam messages since December 2020.

Optus ScamWise is available to customers on both pre-paid and post-paid plans free of charge, through the My Optus App.

Scam Protection Tips

1. Avoid phishing hooks. In phishing scams, scammers contact you through emails, messages, calls, or unreliable websites. They often offer deals that sound too good to be true, the latest phone for a fraction of the price or better inclusions.
2. Calls that demand immediate payment or sensitive information like date of birth or address are suspect
3. Does the message make you panic, fearful, hopeful or curious? Scammers use threatening language, make false claims of support, or tease you into wanting to find out more.

Customers who suspect they are being targeted by a scammer can report the number to the ACCC’s Scamwatch.

[1] https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/news-alerts/shopping-for-online-bargains-this-black-friday-weekend-make-sure-its-the-real-deal

[2] ACCC calls for united front as scammers steal over $3bn from Australians | ACCC

ENDS 

Media contact:

Nicole Higgins, Optus Corporate Affairs 
P: 02 9037 8179 
media@optus.com.au