Scammers are constantly adapting their methods in response to global trends, as highlighted by Shaheen Ali, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, at the launch of the inaugural National Scam Awareness Week.
Mr. Ali emphasized the growing prevalence of scams in today’s digital landscape, stating, “In our rapidly evolving digital age, it is crucial to understand that scams have become an unfortunate aspect of daily life.” He pointed out various scams that are currently affecting Fiji, including impersonation schemes, fraudulent job offers, and romance scams, which are often worsened by misleading communications via social media.
“The National Scam Awareness Week serves as an important platform to educate not only young adults but also future generations on how to recognize and protect themselves from scams,” he remarked. To enhance outreach, the initiative will utilize multiple media channels, including billboards and social media platforms, to increase public awareness.
Seema Shandil, the chief executive officer of the Consumer Council of Fiji, noted a concerning lack of consumer engagement during their outreach efforts. She mentioned that inquiries often spike only after individuals have been scammed. “Despite our numerous alerts regarding potential scams and guidance on how to identify scammers, many consumers remain complacent,” Ms. Shandil stated.
She highlighted that even with extensive awareness campaigns at both online and grassroots levels, many individuals continue to overlook the provided advice. Unfortunately, this negligence often leads them to seek assistance only after they have fallen victim to scams.
Last year, the eBay Online Shop recruitment scam had a significant negative impact, affecting 900 people in Fiji and leading to recorded complaints totaling $1.7 million. “The damage caused by such scams is only the beginning of the problem,” Ms. Shandil cautioned.
On a global scale, online fraud has seen substantial growth, with phishing emails and other deceptive tactics targeting individuals and businesses alike. The Anti-Scam Taskforce has been established to improve coordination among various agencies, raise awareness, and advocate for protective measures through initiatives like Scam Awareness Week. The taskforce’s objectives include enhancing public knowledge, conducting joint educational campaigns, and pushing for stricter laws and regulations.