The M-PAiSA scam has escalated to a value exceeding $610,000, according to Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga. During a parliamentary session, Mr. Turaga highlighted the alarming increase in digital scams, prompting the training of State prosecutors in cybercrime.
“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is now prioritizing intensive, targeted training focused on cybercrime and cyber-enabled crime. This will include a specialized digital forensic investigation training scheduled for January 2025, aimed at equipping our prosecutors to address the increasingly complex nature of these crimes,” Mr. Turaga stated.
He cited the recent M-PAiSA scam and the Ebay Shop Online recruitment scam as prime examples of the rising trend of cyber-enabled crime in Fiji, with the M-PAiSA scam alone estimated to be worth $614,435.89. Currently, there are 650 cases under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department of the Fiji Police Force.
The interest among State lawyers for training in these specialized areas is increasing, indicating a proactive approach to combatting cybercrime.
In summary, the government is recognizing and responding to the escalating threat of cybercrime by equipping legal professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge. This effort reflects a hopeful outlook toward improving the safety of digital transactions and enhancing the overall cybersecurity landscape in Fiji.
It is encouraging to see that there is a concerted effort towards tackling these modern-day challenges, which could ultimately lead to a more secure environment for individuals engaging in online transactions and activities.
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