The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has issued a warning to the public regarding a deceitful scam that has surfaced on Facebook, promoting a bogus “smart pass” bus card misusing the LTA logo. The fake advertisement claims that Pacific Transport is celebrating its anniversary by offering a travel card that allows for six months of free travel at the minimal cost of FJD $5.13.
The LTA has confirmed that this announcement is entirely untrue, stating there is no existing promotion or partnership with Pacific Transport related to the scam. “This is a scam aimed at tricking and exploiting people,” LTA officials urged, encouraging individuals to authenticate any offers through official channels prior to taking action.
In addition, they advised anyone who comes across this misleading post or similar suspicious content to report it to the LTA or appropriate authorities without hesitation. For consistent and reliable updates, the public is encouraged to follow LTA’s official social media accounts or visit their website.
This alert comes amidst a broader concern regarding online scams, as highlighted by previous warnings from institutions like the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) and the Fiji Police. Recent reports have shown a significant rise in online scams, particularly deceptive advertisements that offer free services or goods and exploit individuals looking to better their situations.
The community is reminded of the importance of vigilance as scams can increase during festive seasons, where fraudsters exploit heightened excitement and increased online activity. Promoting awareness and educating others can help reduce the prevalence of such fraud, empowering citizens to navigate the digital landscape safely.
With these ongoing warnings, the hope is that increased awareness will lead to enhanced community resilience against scams, fostering a safer environment for all amid the growing digital threats.
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