- Scam
Community report for 02 8073 8951 (0280738951): Recorded message impersonating Border Force with claims about important documents, then switched to Chinese.
Robocall Impersonation Reports for 02 8073 8951
One contributor has reported receiving a suspicious call from 02 8073 8951 (also written as 0280738951) featuring a recorded message impersonating Australian Border Force. The call attempted to create urgency by referencing important documents, a common tactic used in scam campaigns targeting Australian residents. Notably, the recorded message switched to Chinese mid-call, suggesting the operation may be targeting multiple language groups or testing different approaches.
The use of robocall technology combined with impersonation of a government agency makes 0280738951 consistent with known scam patterns. The Border Force impersonation is particularly concerning, as it carries implicit threat of legal consequences if the recipient does not comply with demands.
What the Caller from 02 8073 8951 Claims
The recorded message from 02 8073 8951 references Border Force and mentions important documents requiring attention. Rather than speaking directly, the scammer relied on an automated recording, which then transitioned to Chinese-language content. This multi-language approach suggests the number may be part of a larger operation making widespread calls across different demographics.
The shift to Chinese mid-call is unusual and may indicate either a system error in the automated dialler, or an intentional targeting strategy for Chinese-speaking residents. Either way, it reveals the operation's reliance on bulk robocall infrastructure rather than personalised social engineering.
How the Call Came Through
The call to 02 8073 8951 was answered by the contributor, revealing it was delivered via automated robocall technology rather than a live operator. The number appears to be provisioned through Symbio Networks, a local service provider in NSW. The use of recorded messages is a significant red flag, as legitimate government agencies typically do not initiate contact via robocalls about urgent matters.
What to Do If You Receive a Call from 02 8073 8951
If 0280738951 calls you:
- Do not: Stay on the line to listen to the message, press any numbers, or call back the number
- Do not: Provide any personal information, banking details, or document references
- Do: Hang up immediately when you recognise it as a recorded message
- Do: Block the number 02 8073 8951 in your phone's settings
- Do: Verify any claimed Border Force matter directly by calling the official Border Force hotline (1300 160 290) using a number from the official government website, never numbers provided by the caller
How to Report 02 8073 8951
Report this number and your experience to the following Australian authorities:
- ACMA (Australian Communications and Media Authority): Report the robocall at acma.gov.au - ACMA tracks scam robocalls and can take action against providers
- Scamwatch: File a detailed report at scamwatch.gov.au describing the Border Force impersonation and robocall technology
- Reverseau: Contribute your report here to help other Australians identify 0280738951
- Australian Federal Police: For serious scam attempts, report to cyber.gov.au or call 1300 330 949
When reporting, mention that the call used robocall technology, impersonated Border Force, and included Chinese-language content. These details help authorities identify coordinated scam campaigns.
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Recorded message saying something about border force and important docs, then switched to Chinese
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WRITE A REVIEWFrequently Asked Questions
What should I do if Border Force calls me about documents?
Legitimate Border Force contact about documents typically comes via letter or official myGov notification, not unsolicited robocalls. If you receive a call claiming to be from Border Force like the one from 02 8073 8951, hang up immediately. To verify any actual Border Force matter, contact the official Border Force hotline at 1300 160 290 using the number from the official government website, never numbers provided by the caller on 0280738951.
Why did the message switch to Chinese mid-call?
The language switch on 02 8073 8951 suggests the robocall operation is either targeting multiple language groups or using automated bulk-calling infrastructure with minimal customisation. It may also indicate a technical glitch in their automated system. Either way, it's a strong indicator that this is a scam robocall, not a legitimate government communication from 0280738951.
Is 02 8073 8951 a real Border Force number?
No. 02 8073 8951 (0280738951) is provisioned through Symbio Networks as a local service number and is being used for impersonation. The Australian Border Force has official contact numbers published on the Department of Home Affairs website. Never trust contact details provided by unsolicited callers claiming to be from government agencies. Always initiate contact using official government contact information.
What is a robocall and why are they used in scams?
A robocall is an automated recorded message, like the one reported from 02 8073 8951. Scammers use robocalls because they can target thousands of numbers cheaply and quickly without employing live operators. The robocall from 0280738951 allowed the scammer to impersonate Border Force at scale. Robocalls are a key indicator of a scam.
Should I press any numbers if a robocall from 02 8073 8951 asks me to?
No. Do not press any numbers or interact with prompts from 02 8073 8951. Pressing a number confirms your line is active and may add you to a priority list for future scam attempts. Simply hang up and block 0280738951 immediately. Hanging up costs you nothing and prevents further targeting from this robocall operation.
Can I report this number to my phone provider?
Yes. Contact Symbio Networks (the provider for 02 8073 8951) or your own phone provider to report the robocall from 0280738951. However, your most effective action is reporting to ACMA at acma.gov.au and Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au, as these agencies track patterns across multiple providers and can escalate serious cases.