The Australian Border Force is aware of reports that members of the community are receiving phone calls from an automated voice claiming to represent them. The voice tells them that the ABF is holding a parcel that contains something illegal and a warrant has been issued for their arrest. This is a scam and recipients of the same calls are asked not to follow the callers' instructions or try to call the number back.
How to Protect Yourself
The Australian Border Force will never call or email you to ask for your credit card or banking details or to request that you transfer money. If you have reason to doubt the validity of a caller or an email, ask for their name and contact details, then check these details with the Customs and Border Protection switchboard by calling 1300 363 263. You can also report any suspicious activities to Customs Watch by phoning 1800 06 1800.
More information on Customs and Border Protection invoice payment procedures can be found at www.customs.gov.au
Concerned members of the public can also check the Australian Government’s ScamWatch website at www.scamwatch.gov.au or call 1300 302 502.