The Fiji Police M-PAiSA task force has charged two individuals for allegedly engaging in financial deception via the popular mobile money transfer application. The suspects, a 29-year-old man and a 37-year-old woman, both residing in the areas of Davuilevu and Koronivia, are accused of collaborating to pull off a rental car scam.
On September 17, they reportedly utilized multiple Facebook accounts to advertise rental cars, instructing interested customers to make payments through the M-PAiSA platform. One victim, who lives in Nadi, fell prey to the scheme, sending $190 to the mobile number provided. Upon attempting to reach the suspects for further communication, he soon discovered that he had been scammed and promptly reported the incident to the Nadi Police Station.
As a result of their actions, the two accused individuals face charges for obtaining a financial advantage through deception and dishonestly dealing with personal financial information. They are scheduled to appear in the Nasinu Magistrates Court today.
This situation highlights the continued risks associated with online transactions and the importance of verifying the legitimacy of offers made on social media and other platforms. It serves as a reminder for individuals to exercise caution when dealing with unfamiliar rental services or transactions conducted through mobile platforms.
With the police taking swift action, it shows a commitment to combatting fraud and protecting consumers in Fiji. As such scams continue to emerge, increased public awareness and vigilance can help prevent future incidents and promote a safer digital environment for all.
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