Inia Seruiratu, the Leader of the Opposition, is urging the public to be cautious of scams, particularly the Paragonix scam, which has misused the names and images of well-known Fijians to push deceptive schemes.
In a recent statement, Seruiratu noted that as Scam Awareness Week comes to an end, it is essential for Fijians to stay alert against the growing threat of scams that cause significant financial and emotional damage to individuals and their families.
He pointed out that even though the Consumer Council and Police Force have made efforts to address the issue, the number of scam cases is increasing and often goes underreported. This issue is further complicated by poverty, unemployment, and the challenges presented by global digitization.
“A collective effort from all sectors of society is crucial to tackle this escalating issue and protect citizens from being taken advantage of. Despite ongoing measures, the number of victims continues to grow,” Seruiratu stated.
He expressed concern that the true scope of the problem is likely underreported, a common challenge faced by many developing nations grappling with the intricacies of global digital advancements. He remarked that advancements in technology and increased global connectivity provide scammers with opportunities to exploit vulnerable individuals, while issues such as poverty and rising living costs intensify the situation.
To avoid becoming victims of scams, Seruiratu advised citizens to be aware of the associated risks and to be cautious about chasing quick profits. He emphasized that combating this issue requires united efforts from all parties involved.
He also highlighted the severe impact of scams in Australia, where losses in 2023 exceeded $2.7 billion, affecting over 600,000 individuals. These statistics illustrate the gravity of the problem and the pressing need for action.
Seruiratu specifically pointed out the Paragonix Edge scam, which unlawfully employed his image and those of other notable Fijians, including Waisale Serevi, Jerry Tuwai, Fred Wesley, and Shania Singh, to endorse a fraudulent operation.
“I want to stress that I have no affiliation or knowledge regarding this company or its methods. Educational initiatives for consumers are vital in addressing the scam challenge, and a holistic societal approach is paramount,” he emphasized.
“This strategy entails collaboration among government entities, law enforcement, regulatory bodies, NGOs, civil society, religious organizations, educational institutions, and the community as a whole. Together, we can fight scams and safeguard our citizens against financial exploitation,” Seruiratu concluded.