The Consumer Council of Fiji is advising the public to be cautious when engaging with visa consultants, as fraudulent entities are taking advantage of the increasing demand for migration services.
Seema Shandil, the Council’s chief executive, highlighted that despite previous alerts, many consumers continue to be victims of visa-related scams, often transferring large sums of money without verifying the consultants’ credentials. This trend has allowed scammers to thrive, as individuals frequently neglect to conduct proper checks or request proof of legitimacy before handing over their funds.
A recent incident reported to the Council involved a group of caregiving students who were approached by someone posing as a visa consultant on social media. The individual promised overseas job opportunities and convinced the students to transfer money, but doubts were raised when further payments were demanded. An initial investigation uncovered that multiple students from the same school had collectively transferred hundreds of dollars without ever meeting or speaking with the scammer directly, relying solely on social media for communication.
Shandil expressed concern over the alarming ease with which these fraudsters operate, indicating a lack of caution among consumers. She noted that scammers are exploiting Fijians’ desires for overseas employment and migration opportunities, often taking large amounts of money in exchange for false promises. She urged consumers to be wary of sending money to individuals contacted online, advising them to verify all claims before making any financial commitments.
“Legitimate companies that recruit workers from Fiji will not approach you via social media or request upfront payments,” Shandil emphasized. The pursuit of overseas opportunities has made many Fijians vulnerable to scammers offering seemingly simple migration paths, resulting in significant financial losses for many.
Consumers are urged to take preventive measures, ensuring that visa consultants are registered and recognized by the appropriate authorities. It’s crucial to check reviews, testimonials, and prior cases to confirm a consultant’s validity, and to request a formal contract that clearly outlines the terms and conditions of the visa services offered.
Moreover, consumers should be aware that no consultant can guarantee visa approvals, as promises that sound too good to be true often signal a red flag.
Anyone who has been victimized by a visa consultant can file a complaint with the Council through the National Consumer Helpline at the toll-free number 155 or by emailing complaints@consumersfiji.org.