The Consumer Council of Fiji has issued a warning about a sophisticated online scam that is using the name, image, and videos of Board Chair Mereseini Baleilevuka to promote fake investment schemes promising huge returns. Criminals have created counterfeit posts and profiles that appear to endorse these get-rich-quick offers, with the sole aim of tricking people into sending money by exploiting the trust attached to a high-profile public figure.
Baleilevuka is not connected to these schemes. She was among the first to alert the Council to the widespread scam and is actively fighting back by sharing live videos and posts on her own social media to warn the public directly. She has stated clearly that she does not endorse such schemes and has urged people to stay vigilant.
Council Chief Executive Seema Shandil described the situation as an alarming new low and said it represents a ruthless attempt to steal from ordinary Fijians by abusing a trusted name. The Council urges consumers never to send money or share banking or personal details in response to online ads or posts and to report any suspicious posts or profiles impersonating Baleilevuka or promoting these scams to the National Consumer Helpline.
In addition to this case, the broader anti-scam effort in Fiji continues to caution the public about other frauds that target everyday needs, such as migration and visa services. The Council and the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) have repeatedly warned that scammers impersonate visa consultants and other legitimate-sounding providers, often asking for upfront payments before credentials can be verified. Consumers are urged to verify credentials, request formal contracts, and confirm legitimacy through official channels before engaging with any service.
What to do if you encounter a suspicious post or offer
– Do not send money or share financial or personal information.
– Verify the source through official channels and check the credentials of anyone offering services or investment opportunities.
– Report suspicious activity to the National Consumer Helpline at 155 or via complaints@consumersfiji.org for assistance.
– Look for red flags such as requests for upfront payments, guarantees of high returns, or pressure to act quickly.
Summary and outlook
The case involving Baleilevuka highlights the growing sophistication of online scams and the importance of vigilance, verification, and rapid reporting. The Council, Baleilevuka, and partner agencies continue to stress that trust should be earned through verified credentials and transparent practices. By staying informed, confirming legitimacy, and utilizing available reporting channels, consumers can reduce their risk and help curb these deceptive schemes.
Additional context notes for editors
– This incident aligns with ongoing warnings about impersonation scams and scams that misuse government or public figures for legitimacy.
– Consider weaving in parallel stories from recent warnings about visa consultancy scams and government-logo misuse to provide readers with a broader sense of the scam landscape and practical safety steps.
– A hopeful angle: continued public awareness, swift reporting, and collaboration among consumer protection agencies can strengthen defenses against increasingly credible online scams.
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