02 4436 9345: Scam Alert - Fraudulent Australian Border Force Call

• Scam

Beware of calls from 02 4436 9345, reported as a scam posing as Australian Border Force. This article outlines how to handle such suspicious calls and protect yourself effectively.

Understanding the Threat of 02 4436 9345

The phone number 02 4436 9345 / 0244369345 has recently raised concerns due to multiple user reports classifying it as a scam. Callers have experienced an automated message pretending to be from the Australian Border Force, which is an alarming trend of impersonation scams that often target unsuspecting individuals.

What Happened?

One report dated 23 September 2021 detailed a call received on a mobile device. The automated voice claimed that a parcel addressed to the receiver had been seized and that there was an active arrest warrant against them. This technique is commonly used in scams to create a sense of urgency and fear. The caller was prompted to press '1' to speak to an officer, which is a typical tactic scammers use to engage the target further.

Why This Number is Considered a Scam

Several factors contribute to the classification of 02 4436 9345 / 0244369345 as a scam:

• Impersonation Strategy: The scammer’s strategy of imitating a well-known government agency like the Australian Border Force aims to instil fear and manipulate the victim into providing personal information.
• Disconnection on Re-dial: When the victim attempted to call the number back, they discovered that it was inactive, further solidifying its fraudulent nature.
• Automated Messages: These calls often use automated systems to prevent personal interaction, making the scam harder to trace and report.

How to Handle Calls from 02 4436 9345

If you receive a call from this number or a similar one, here are some steps to protect yourself:

• Do Not Engage: If the call begins with an automated message claiming to be from a government agency, do not press any numbers or engage in conversation. Simply hang up.
• Verify Independently: If you are concerned about the validity of a message received, contact the relevant government agency directly using a verified number.
• Report the Number: Use Reverseau to look up the number and report your experience. This helps others stay informed about potential scams.

Conclusion

The number 02 4436 9345 / 0244369345 has been expressly identified as a part of a scam operation aimed at impersonating the Australian Border Force. Always remain vigilant when receiving unsolicited calls and use tools like Reverse Phone Lookup Australia to research unknown numbers. Stay safe, and protect your personal information.