Is this text or email from Australian Border Force a scam?
Government agencies are a favourite scam disguise, and Australian Border Force is one of the names scammers hide behind most — a message about a fine, refund or account problem makes people act fast. A text, email or call that looks like it's from Australian Border Force can be genuine — but it can just as easily be a scam built to look identical. The good news: a few quick checks almost always tell a real Australian Border Force message from a fake.
Genuine Australian Border Force links only ever go to abf.gov.au. Below is exactly what a real Australian Border Force message looks like, the scams currently circulating in its name, the red flags that give a fake away, and a real example to compare against. Got a message in front of you? Check it now for an instant verdict.
What a real Australian Border Force message looks like
Genuine messages from Australian Border Force only ever link to abf.gov.au.
- Australian Border Force only uses the official abf.gov.au domain for any genuine written correspondence
- ABF never sends SMS messages about customs fees, parcels or travel documents
- Any legitimate ABF contact begins with the person receiving an official letter or email first, never an unexpected phone call
- Genuine ABF communications never ask for immediate payment by gift card, cryptocurrency or bank transfer
- The agency publishes all current border and customs requirements openly on abf.gov.au
Crucially, Australian Border Force will never demand payment by gift card, cryptocurrency or an urgent bank transfer, or threaten you with immediate arrest or deportation.
Common Australian Border Force scams
- Callers claiming to be ABF officers who say a parcel addressed to you has been intercepted and that you must pay a release fee immediately
- Threats of arrest, fines or deportation unless you provide card details or transfer money over the phone
- Requests to download an app or click a link to “track your package” or “confirm your identity” during the call
Red flags to watch for
- An unexpected phone call from someone claiming to be from the Australian Border Force
- Demand for payment of customs charges or a fine during that same call
- Pressure to act immediately or face arrest or seizure of goods
- Requests for remote access to your computer or banking details to “verify” your identity
Scam text examples
Here's a real example of a scam message impersonating Australian Border Force, with the tell-tale red flags highlighted. Compare it against anything you've received.
This is Australian Border Force. A package addressed to you has been held at the border for customs payment of $485. Pay now at abf-gov-settlement.com or we will destroy the goods and issue a fine.
What gives it away:
- An unexpected phone call from someone claiming to be from the Australian Border Force
- Demand for payment of customs charges or a fine during that same call
- Pressure to act immediately or face arrest or seizure of goods
- Requests for remote access to your computer or banking details to “verify” your identity
Not sure about your message?
Paste the suspicious Australian Border Force text or email and get an instant scam verdict, free.
How to verify a message from Australian Border Force
- Type abf.gov.au directly into your browser and use the contact forms listed there
- Check the official ABF app or your myGov account for any genuine border-related notices
Where to report a scam impersonating Australian Border Force
Received — or fell for — a message impersonating Australian Border Force? Report it. It helps authorities and carriers shut the campaign down for everyone who gets the next one.
- Scamwatch — Report the scam to the ACCC's national scam service.
- ReportCyber — Report cybercrime and financial loss to the police.
- ACMA — Report scam texts and spam SMS or calls.
- Forward to 7226 (SPAM) — Forward the scam SMS to short code 7226 so your carrier can block the source.
- IDCARE — Free identity and cyber support if your details were taken.
Frequently asked questions
I got a call from someone saying they are Australian Border Force about a parcel — is it a scam?
Yes. ABF never phones people out of the blue demanding payment for intercepted parcels. Hang up and report the call at scamwatch.gov.au.
Can Australian Border Force ask me to pay customs fees over the phone?
No. The agency states it never demands customs payments by phone. Any such request is a scam; verify only through abf.gov.au.
How do I check if an ABF message or call is real?
Log into your myGov account or go directly to abf.gov.au yourself. Never use links or numbers supplied in an unexpected contact.
Related scam types
Scams impersonating Australian Border Force usually fit one of these patterns. Learn how each works:
Related brands
Other government names scammers impersonate — check a message from one:
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice — always verify with Australian Border Force through an official channel.