Inia Seruiratu, the Leader of the Opposition, has issued a warning to the public about the increasing prevalence of scams, specifically the Paragonix scam, which has improperly utilized the names and images of well-known Fijians to promote deceptive schemes.
In his statement, Seruiratu emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance as Scam Awareness Week comes to an end, stressing that scams pose serious financial and emotional risks to individuals and families across Fiji.
He noted that, despite the efforts of the Consumer Council and the Police Force, the number of scam incidents is on the rise, with many cases going unreported. This trend is further complicated by issues such as poverty, unemployment, and the challenges associated with global digitalization.
“A united approach from all sectors of society is crucial in tackling this escalating issue and safeguarding citizens from exploitation. The number of victims continues to climb,” warned Seruiratu. He highlighted that the full scale of the problem is likely underestimated, a common challenge for many developing nations navigating the intricacies of global digitization.
Seruiratu pointed out that advancements in technology and a heightened level of interconnectedness create fertile ground for scammers to target vulnerable individuals. He indicated that socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and rising living costs, worsen the situation.
To avoid becoming victims of scams, citizens are urged to be aware of the associated risks and to resist the lure of quick financial gains. The fight against this pervasive issue requires a comprehensive effort from all stakeholders involved.
He referenced alarming statistics from Australia, where losses due to scams in 2023 exceeded $2.7 billion, impacting over 600,000 people, underscoring the gravity of this problem and the pressing need for intervention.
Seruiratu specifically called out the Paragonix Edge scam, which has misused his name and those of other notable Fijians, such as Waisale Serevi, Jerry Tuwai, Fred Wesley, and Shania Singh, to promote fraudulent activities.
He reiterated that he has no affiliation with this company or its operations and highlighted the importance of consumer education in combating scam issues. He advocated for a collective societal approach that engages government agencies, law enforcement, regulatory bodies, NGOs, religious organizations, educational institutions, and the broader community.
Together, Seruiratu believes, these efforts can effectively address scams and protect citizens from financial exploitation.