The Fiji Online Safety Commission (OSC) has issued a warning to the public about ongoing impersonation scams that specifically target mobile phone users. The commission has received multiple reports of scammers posing as cybercrime police officers to deceive individuals. These fraudsters entice victims with offers of job opportunities or “free cash” via Viber, which are often bogus schemes aimed at stealing personal information.
In its statement, the OSC emphasized the importance of vigilance when receiving unsolicited communications, particularly those that offer opportunities that sound too good to be true. The commission advises individuals to verify the legitimacy of any unsolicited job offers or financial benefits before engaging with them. Genuine promotions typically require participation in a recognized competition and should not be presented through unverified channels.
The OSC also stresses the significance of protecting personal information, urging users to be cautious about sharing their phone numbers and accounts with unfamiliar contacts. Users are encouraged to enhance their privacy settings on platforms like Viber, making sure their accounts are secured with strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA).
This advisory aligns with warnings from the Fiji Police Force, which has been actively reminding the community to be cautious of fraudulent online activities. As scammers continue to develop sophisticated narratives and visuals to lure victims, raising awareness within the community becomes vital. By educating oneself and others about common scam tactics and sharing knowledge, the public can contribute to a safer online environment.
As the digital landscape evolves, the proactive measures taken by organizations like the OSC and the Police demonstrate their commitment to protecting the community from cybercrime. This collaborative effort fosters hope that informed vigilance and education can significantly mitigate the risks associated with online scams, ultimately leading to a more secure digital space for all Fijians.
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