The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has issued a warning to the public about a potential scam linked to social media advertisements that falsely claim to provide free online courses along with certificates and pathways to lucrative jobs.
These deceptive ads, which utilize the Fiji Government’s logo to appear credible, are spreading across various social media platforms, enticing users to click on unverified links. This may lead individuals to fraudulent websites designed to gather personal information for malicious purposes.
FCCC CEO Joel Abraham emphasized the importance of exercising caution, stating, “Remain cautious and avoid sharing personal details with suspicious sources. As we have highlighted in the past, scammers have become increasingly sophisticated in targeting Fijians. Official information on government-sponsored programs is communicated through verified channels.”
Abraham pointed out that these online education scams are cleverly crafted to take advantage of Fijians looking to enhance their skills.
While efforts are underway to develop stronger anti-scam measures and future legislation, Abraham urged the public to be vigilant. “Always scrutinise such offers and verify with credible sources. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
To minimize the risk of falling prey to scams, FCCC advises people to verify all offers by reaching out to official sources or checking the websites of recognized educational institutions.
Individuals are also advised to refrain from clicking on unsolicited links or sharing personal information online, especially in response to offers that have not been verified.
With Diwali approaching, Abraham has specifically called on Fijians to remain extra alert for scams. “This time often sees a spike in fraudulent activities, as scammers attempt to exploit the heightened excitement and increased online shopping associated with the celebrations.”
He cautioned against unsolicited offers, discounts, or giveaways that demand personal or financial information, as scammers may use Diwali-themed messages to conceal their true intentions. It is crucial to verify the legitimacy of all offers before proceeding.
If anyone suspects they have fallen victim to a scam or encounter dubious advertisements, they are encouraged to report these incidents to the FCCC or relevant authorities such as the Online Safety Commission or the Fiji Police’s Cyber Crime Unit.
As a member of the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), FCCC can utilize advanced scam detection tools and check any suspicious links through ScamAdviser. Reports of questionable links can be submitted to scamwatch@fccc.gov.fj.
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