Internet dumping, also known as dialler hijacking, occurs when users are disconnected from their local Internet Service Provider and reconnected through overseas modem calls, usually to information numbers.

This internet-based trap can arise when visiting certain websites (normally adult sites) and can result in a large phone bill due to the computer dialing 1900 or similar numbers. These websites (and/or files downloaded from them) alter the dialup settings inside the computer, often without the user knowing.

To prevent this from happening, users can contact Telstra or their telecommunications company and have Call Control enabled so that outgoing call attempts made to 1900 and other expensive numbers are blocked or require a PIN number to be accessed.

For information on Call Control with Westnet Phone, click here.