- Uncertain
- Scam
02 3816 1540 (0238161540): Community reports of automated scam calls claiming abnormal service usage with threats of disconnection in English and Chinese.
Robocall Scam Reports for 02 3816 1540
Two contributors have reported calls from 02 3816 1540 (also written as 0238161540), with one clearly identifying a scam attempt. The confirmed scam report describes an automated robocall using a computerised voice claiming abnormal usage has been detected on the recipient's service, with an immediate threat of disconnection. The call offered language options in both English and Chinese, suggesting the scam targets a broad audience across Sydney and NSW.
The robocall from 0238161540 uses high-pressure tactics by combining urgency (immediate service disruption threat) with automated delivery, which are hallmarks of telecommunications scams. This particular combination makes it difficult for recipients to verify the caller's legitimacy or ask clarifying questions, as they are speaking with a machine rather than a live operator.
What the Automated Message Claims
Contributors receiving calls from 02 3816 1540 report hearing a robotic voice stating that abnormal usage has been detected on their service. The message threatens immediate service disconnection as a consequence. The availability of both English and Chinese language options suggests the scammers are deliberately casting a wide net across diverse communities in NSW.
One contributor hung up before the full message could be understood, but the second contributor clearly heard the abnormal usage claim and disconnection threat. This pattern is typical of telecommunications fraud targeting NBN, mobile, or broadband customers who may panic at the prospect of losing service without warning.
Call Patterns and Timing
Both calls from 0238161540 were answered by the recipients. The scam call was reported on 24 March 2026 during business hours (11:07 AM), while the uncertain call came in the following morning on 25 March. The two calls within a 24-hour window suggest either active campaign targeting or list-based dialling. The number is allocated to Symbio Networks Pty Ltd as a local service in NSW, which may be spoofed or compromised.
What to Do If You Receive a Call from 02 3816 1540
If 02 3816 1540 calls you:
- Do not: Provide personal details, account numbers, or passwords; press any buttons or follow robocall prompts; return the call to the number shown
- Do: Hang up immediately; let it go to voicemail if you don't recognise the caller; verify any service concerns by calling your actual provider directly using the number on your bill or their official website
- Important: Legitimate service providers never threaten immediate disconnection via automated calls and do not demand urgent action without allowing you to verify through official channels
How to Report 02 3816 1540
If you receive a scam call from 02 3816 1540 or 0238161540, you can report it to Australian authorities:
- ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority): Report the call at acma.gov.au or call 1300 850 152. ACMA investigates telecommunications scams and can take action against malicious callers.
- Scamwatch: Lodge a report at scamwatch.gov.au. Your information helps protect other Australians and informs law enforcement.
- Your telecommunications provider: Contact Symbio Networks Pty Ltd or your actual service provider directly to report the fraudulent use of their network.
- Reverseau: Report your experience on this page to help other Australians identify and avoid 02 3816 1540.
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What Our Users Reviewed
A recording played but I hung up before understanding it
Robot voice saying abnormal usage detected, service will be stopped, English and Chinese options
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WRITE A REVIEWFrequently Asked Questions
Why is a robocall from 02 3816 1540 claiming to be about my service?
The automated call from 02 3816 1540 (0238161540) is a scam targeting broadband or telecommunications customers. Scammers use robocalls because they allow mass dialling with minimal cost. The abnormal usage claim is a common false premise designed to create panic so you act without thinking. Real service providers do not contact customers via threatening automated messages.
What should I do if I already gave information to the 02 3816 1540 robocall?
Contact your actual service provider immediately using the number on your bill (not the number from the call). Report the scam to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au and ACMA at acma.gov.au. If you shared financial details, contact your bank and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit file. Do not assume the caller from 0238161540 will disconnect your service - this is a scare tactic.
Why does the call from 02 3816 1540 offer English and Chinese language options?
Scammers offering multiple languages are deliberately targeting different demographic groups across NSW and Australia. The robocall from 02 3816 1540 (0238161540) is designed to reach the widest possible audience, regardless of their primary language. This is a sign of a coordinated, large-scale fraud operation rather than a legitimate service provider issue.
How can I verify if my service actually has an issue instead of a scam from 0238161540?
Never rely on unsolicited calls from 02 3816 1540 to tell you about service problems. Instead, log into your account directly via your service provider's official website using a browser (not a link from the call). Check your account status, recent usage, and any pending issues. If you're unsure, call your provider directly using the number printed on your bill. Legitimate providers give you time to verify; scammers using robocalls create false urgency.
Should I press buttons or follow the instructions from the robocall on 02 3816 1540?
No. Do not press any buttons or follow prompts from the automated call on 0238161540. Pressing keys may confirm to scammers that your number is active and monitored by a real person, resulting in more calls. It may also trigger additional unwanted dialling or fraudulent charges. The safest action is to hang up immediately and do not engage with the robocall.
Is 02 3816 1540 a real Symbio Networks number or is it spoofed?
The number 02 3816 1540 (0238161540) is allocated to Symbio Networks Pty Ltd, but it is almost certainly spoofed (falsely displayed). Scammers spoof legitimate business numbers to trick recipients into thinking the call is genuine. Contact Symbio Networks directly via their official website to report that their number is being used for scam calls, but do not assume the robocall actually originated from them.