The Fiji Police Force Cybercrime Unit has apprehended a 30-year-old unemployed man from Labasa, charging him with allegedly securing a financial advantage through an online scam. The incident, which occurred in February of last year, involved the accused obtaining $380 through internet banking, which he later withdrew from a supermarket using an MPOS purchase on the same day.
Investigations revealed that the victim sent the money to the suspect’s account after being deceived by a message in a school teachers’ Viber group. It was subsequently discovered that the Viber account of the school Principal had been compromised, with the hacker soliciting funds from group members under false pretenses.
Upon reporting the incident to the Labasa Police Station, the Cybercrime Unit initiated a thorough investigation, which led to the suspect being tracked down. Police confirmed that the man is currently in custody and will appear before the Labasa Magistrates Court later today.
This case highlights a troubling trend of online scams in Fiji, where individuals are misled into sending money by fraudulent messages that mimic valid communications. Authorities have noted an increase in similar incidents, particularly those exploiting messaging platforms and social media for deceitful financial gain.
The Fiji Police Force has issued a reminder to the public to exercise caution regarding online financial transactions. This includes verifying any requests for money received through social media or messaging platforms, thereby fostering greater awareness and vigilance among the community.
While these incidents underline the risks associated with digital transactions, the committed response from law enforcement serves as a hopeful indication of ongoing efforts to combat cyber fraud and protect potential victims from scams. By promoting awareness and safety measures, there is optimism that the online environment can become a safer space for financial interactions.
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