The Consumer Council of Fiji is advising the public to be cautious when dealing with visa consultants, as fraudulent entities are taking advantage of the increased demand for migration services. Chief Executive Seema Shandil highlighted that despite prior warnings, many individuals continue to fall victim to visa scams, often handing over large amounts of money without verifying the consultants’ credentials.
Shandil noted that this trend has enabled scammers to flourish, largely because consumers fail to perform necessary checks or seek proof of legitimacy before making financial commitments. A recent case reported to the Council involved caregiving students who were approached by someone pretending to be a visa consultant on social media. The individual lured the students with promises of job opportunities abroad, leading them to transfer money, but concerns arose when further payments were requested.
Investigations revealed that multiple students from the same school had collectively spent hundreds of dollars, all while communicating solely through social media without any direct interaction with the fraudster. Shandil expressed concern over how easily these criminals operate and pointed out the consumer’s lack of vigilance.
She cautioned that these scammers are taking advantage of Fijians’ desire for overseas employment and migration, often resulting in significant financial losses for victims. Shandil urged consumers to be careful when sending money to individuals they have only met online and to verify all claims beforehand. She emphasized that legitimate recruiting companies would not reach out via social media or require upfront payments.
The longing for overseas opportunities has made many Fijians vulnerable to scammers promising quick migration solutions, but in reality, individuals are losing substantial sums. Consumers need to take precautions by ensuring that any visa consultant they engage with is registered and recognized by relevant authorities. It’s important to check reviews and testimonials to confirm the consultant’s legitimacy and to request a formal contract outlining the visa services’ terms and conditions.
Moreover, consumers should be aware that no consultant can guarantee visa approvals, and any promises that appear too good to be true should raise red flags. Those who have been victimized by a visa consultant can file a complaint with the Council by calling the National Consumer Helpline at toll-free number 155 or by emailing complaints@consumersfiji.org.