Consumers in Fiji are being cautioned about the online platform known as SFCVIBE Rating Limited. The Consumer Council of Fiji has raised alarms about the platform, suggesting it operates as a sophisticated pyramid scheme designed to exploit Fijians and siphon away their hard-earned money.
Investigations reveal that SFCVIBE entices users with the promise of substantial earnings for completing simple tasks, like rating and reviewing movies. However, participants are required to pay significant upfront monthly subscription fees to gain access to various work levels, a clear red flag indicating fraudulent activity, echoing the notorious eBayShop scheme that previously deceived many.
Research by the Consumer Council highlights the platform’s use of deceptive practices to take advantage of its users. SFCVIBE operates on a pay-to-earn model wherein individuals must pay a subscription or deposit before they can start working. The Council emphasizes that legitimate job opportunities typically do not demand any entry fees.
Seema Shandil, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council, points out that this latest surge in digital scams is particularly targeting those seeking supplementary income in Fiji’s expanding digital economy. The platform further complicates matters by implementing tiered membership levels, encouraging users to invest larger sums of money for what are advertised as greater returns.
The tasks associated with movie reviews seem to act as a façade to facilitate monetary transactions, with the system allegedly depending on funds from new memberships to compensate existing participants. Increased recruitment incentives place further pressure on members to recruit family and friends, which exacerbates the scheme’s reach.
The Anti-Scams Taskforce has previously warned the public about similar click-and-earn schemes that have resulted in significant financial losses, including the unfortunate collapse of eBayShop. As the digital landscape evolves, it becomes increasingly crucial for consumers to stay vigilant and informed to protect themselves from potential scams.
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