The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) is alerting the public about a potential scam linked to social media ads that falsely promote free online courses with certificates and high-paying job opportunities.
These deceptive advertisements misuse the Fiji Government logo to appear credible and are prevalent on various social media platforms. They encourage users to click on unverified links, which may lead them to fraudulent websites designed to gather personal information for malicious purposes.
FCCC CEO Joel Abraham emphasized the need for vigilance, warning that scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in targeting Fijians. He stated, “Official information about government-sponsored programs is always shared through verified channels.”
Abraham pointed out that these online education scams are cleverly disguised to take advantage of individuals trying to enhance their skills. He urged the public to remain cautious and scrutinize offers, adding, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
To safeguard against scams, the FCCC recommends that individuals verify offers by contacting official sources or visiting recognized educational institutions’ websites. They advise against clicking on unsolicited links or giving out personal information online in response to unverified proposals.
With the Diwali season approaching, Abraham reminded Fijians to heighten their awareness of potential scams. He noted that this time of year often sees an increase in fraudulent activities as scammers attempt to take advantage of the excitement and rise in online shopping during the holiday gatherings.
“Be cautious of any unsolicited offers, discounts, or giveaways that ask for personal or financial information,” Abraham warned. He cautioned that scammers might use Diwali-related messages to mislead others, stressing the importance of validating the legitimacy of all offers before proceeding.
If individuals suspect they have fallen victim to a scam or have encountered dubious advertisements, they should report these incidents immediately to the FCCC or relevant authorities, including the Online Safety Commission and the Fiji Police’s Cyber Crime Unit.
As part of the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), the FCCC utilizes advanced tools for detecting scams and can verify suspicious links through ScamAdviser. Any questionable links can be reported to scamwatch@fccc.gov.fj.
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