02 8069 1216 - 0280691216: Australian Border Force Impersonation Robocall

• Scam

One contributor reported a robotic voice from 02 8069 1216 (0280691216) claiming to be Australian Border Force. Likely impersonation scam.

Australian Border Force Impersonation Robocall from 02 8069 1216

A contributor has flagged a call from 02 8069 1216 (also written as 0280691216) impersonating Australian Border Force. The caller used a robotic voice, which is a common tactic in automated scam campaigns. The contributor described the call as a 'dodgy ploy', indicating awareness of the suspicious nature but also that the call got through to a live answer.

This type of impersonation targeting border and customs matters is particularly concerning because it plays on legitimate government functions. Callers claiming to represent Australian Border Force may reference visa issues, customs holds, package clearance problems, or immigration status to pressure victims into immediate action.

What the Robocall from 02 8069 1216 Likely Involves

Robocalls impersonating Australian Border Force typically follow a scripted pattern. The automated message may claim there is an issue requiring immediate resolution, such as a parcel held in customs, visa complications, or entry records requiring verification. The robotic voice removes personal interaction, allowing the scammer to reach many numbers quickly with minimal human involvement.

The use of automation on 0280691216 suggests this is part of a larger campaign rather than a one-off call. Recipients are often directed to press a number to speak with an operator or to call back a provided number, which diverts them to the scammer's line.

Call Details and Patterns

The call to 02 8069 1216 was answered, meaning the recipient picked up before realising the nature of the call. This is a vulnerability scammers exploit, as they can deliver their message directly rather than relying on voicemail. The robotic voice nature of the call may have helped the contributor recognise it as automated and suspicious before engaging further.

What to Do If You Receive a Call from 02 8069 1216

If you receive a call from 02 8069 1216 claiming to be from Australian Border Force or any government agency:

• Do not: Believe the caller's identification, provide personal details, passport information, or financial details
• Do not: Follow instructions to press keys, call back the number, or visit a website provided by the caller
• Do: Hang up immediately if you hear a robotic voice or auto-dialler
• Do: Block 0280691216 on your phone to prevent repeat calls
• Do: If you have genuine concerns about border or customs matters, contact Australian Border Force directly via their official website or phone number (not any number the caller provides)
• Do: Verify any official claims by contacting the government agency independently using contact details you find yourself, not provided by the caller

How to Report 02 8069 1216

Report this robocall and impersonation attempt to the relevant Australian authorities:

• Report to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au with details of the call, the time it occurred, and what the caller claimed
• Report the robocall to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) at acma.gov.au - ACMA investigates illegal robocalls and can take action against service providers
• If the call referenced a specific parcel or customs issue, you can report it to Australian Border Force directly via their website
• Block the number 02 8069 1216 on your phone to prevent future calls
• Consider reporting your experience on Reverseau to help other Australians identify this number

Frequently Asked Questions