Fijians now have enhanced protection against online scams and identity theft following a historic agreement between key consumer protection agencies and cyber support service, IDCARE. The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC), the Consumer Council of Fiji (CCoF), and Australia-based IDCARE have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen national cyber resilience.
This partnership is designed to provide individuals, families, and small businesses across Fiji, particularly in rural and underserved regions, with direct access to expert support in scam cases, identity theft, or other cybercrimes. FCCC CEO Senikavika Jiuta emphasized that collaboration is essential for protecting Fijian consumers against growing online threats.
Under this MoU, Fijians can benefit from free access to IDCARE’s specialist case management services, community outreach programs, and awareness campaigns aimed at boosting digital safety and literacy. CCoF CEO Seema Shandil stated that the initiative makes help more accessible than ever before, turning awareness into action and enabling Fijians to better protect their digital lives.
The agreement builds on IDCARE’s work in Fiji since late 2024 under an Australian Government-supported pilot project that has already assisted various individuals and microbusinesses grappling with cybercrime challenges. Training and capacity-building programs are also included in the MoU to empower communities and small businesses with the necessary knowledge to prevent future cyber threats.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts in Fiji to fortify protections against cyber threats. Previously, significant steps have been taken to modernize regulations with international collaboration, such as the review of fraud and scam protection laws in partnership with the United Nations Capital Development Fund. Fiji has also sought to strengthen its cybersecurity framework by establishing the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) and entering into cybersecurity partnerships with countries like Australia and Japan.
As Fiji enhances its digital safety measures, it fosters a secure digital environment, which not only protects its citizens but also sets a positive trend for regional cooperation in cybersecurity efforts across the Pacific. The anticipation is that such measures will cultivate a resilient digital future, ensuring that Fiji is well-equipped to counteract evolving cyber threats effectively.
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