The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has issued a warning to the public regarding a deceptive scam circulating on social media. These fraudulent advertisements falsely claim to provide free online courses, complete with certificates and opportunities for lucrative job placements, while misusing the Fiji Government logo for a semblance of authenticity.
FCCC CEO Joel Abraham emphasized the increasing sophistication of scams targeting Fijians and urged individuals to remain vigilant by avoiding the disclosure of personal information to dubious entities. He noted that such scams are cleverly designed to take advantage of Fijians who are eager to enhance their skills. Abraham urged the community to exercise caution as robust anti-scam legislation is still in development.
To safeguard against scams, the FCCC recommends that people verify offers through official channels and recognized educational institutions. They advised against clicking untrusted links or sharing personal details in response to unverified propositions.
With the festive Diwali season upon us, Abraham cautioned that there is often a spike in fraudulent activity as scammers look to exploit the excitement surrounding increased online shopping during this time. He encouraged Fijians to be wary of unsolicited offers, discounts, or giveaways requiring personal or financial information, especially those disguised with Diwali-themed messaging.
In the event of encountering a scam or suspicious advertisements, the public is urged to report them to the FCCC or other relevant authorities, such as the Online Safety Commission or the Fiji Police’s Cyber Crime Unit. As part of the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), the FCCC possesses advanced tools for scam detection and encourages individuals to report any suspicious links to scamwatch@fccc.gov.fj.
This warning highlights the importance of vigilance in today’s digital age, especially during festive seasons when scams can become more prevalent. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can protect themselves and their personal information from deceptive schemes.
In summary, as scammers become more advanced, public awareness and caution are essential to combat such threats. By taking proactive steps to ensure the authenticity of online offers, Fijians can enjoy the Diwali celebrations while safeguarding themselves against potential scams.
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