Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica reported that the Consumer Council of Fiji has logged over 1,700 complaints related to scams since 2019, amounting to more than $3 million in losses. During a parliamentary address, Kamikamica noted that both the Consumer Council and the Fiji Police Force have indicated that approximately $3 million was lost due to scams associated with eBay.
Kamikamica expressed belief that the true number of scam-related incidents is likely much higher, pending a forthcoming report from the Reserve Bank of Fiji through the Financial Intelligence Unit, which will detail the full impact of such scams on the nation.
He outlined various types of scams, including online schemes that employ phishing tactics through emails and text messages, as well as impersonation of business leaders to facilitate unauthorized fund transfers via mobile wallets. The Deputy Prime Minister also referred to a surge in investment scams in which fraudsters offer both real and fictitious products to investors eager to make quick profits.
Among the most significant scams mentioned was the eBay shop online recruitment scam, noted for its severe impact on the Fijian public and its ability to attract national attention to the issue. Kamikamica stated that perpetrators exploit the trust and aspirations of victims, leaving many financially devastated and emotionally disheartened.
In response to the escalating problem, Kamikamica announced that the government has taken proactive measures by forming the Anti-Scam Taskforce. This multi-agency initiative aims to combat fraud through improved scam surveillance, enhanced institutional frameworks, and focused awareness campaigns engaging multiple stakeholders.
Additionally, he proposed the creation of a dedicated scam agency, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the rising frequency of scams affecting Fiji.