The Fiji Police Force is warning residents to think carefully before entering online competitions, particularly in light of growing concerns surrounding a local texting contest. This competition requires participants to send two dollars via the M-Paisa mobile payment service for a chance to win one thousand dollars. This scheme has led to an increase in public inquiries about its legitimacy, prompting police intervention.

The Cybercrime Unit is actively monitoring these online activities and advises the community to exercise caution. The Fiji Police are conducting consultations with various stakeholders to devise guidelines for running texting competitions and promotions within Fiji, reflecting their commitment to keeping citizens safe from potential scams.

This situation is reminiscent of recent controversies involving public figures, including a popular local singer who faced backlash for hosting a similar cash giveaway requiring monetary contributions. The similarities between various incidents highlight the need for increased scrutiny and caution surrounding online promotions that may seem too good to be true.

With the police’s proactive approach in addressing these issues, there is a positive outlook for the community. By raising awareness and encouraging vigilance, they hope to foster a safer digital environment where residents can make informed decisions regarding online engagements. Ultimately, this initiative aims not only to protect individuals from scams but also to build trust in digital financial transactions in Fiji.