The Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, is urging the public to be cautious of scams, particularly the Paragonix scam, which has misused the names and images of well-known Fijians to endorse fraudulent activities.
In a recent statement, Seruiratu highlighted that as Scam Awareness Week comes to a close, it is crucial for Fijians to stay alert to the ongoing threat of scams that can inflict significant financial and emotional damage on individuals and families.
He pointed out that despite the efforts of the Consumer Council and the Police Force, the number of scam incidents is increasing, often going unreported. This issue is further complicated by factors such as poverty, unemployment, and the challenges posed by global digitization.
“A coordinated effort from all sectors of society is essential to tackle this rising issue and safeguard citizens from exploitation,” Seruiratu stated. He lamented that the actual scale of the problem remains likely underreported, a challenge that many developing nations encounter as they adapt to a digitally interconnected world.
Seruiratu noted that advancements in technology and greater connectivity provide scammers with greater opportunities to prey on vulnerable individuals. Additionally, escalating living costs and economic difficulties contribute to the growing number of victims.
To prevent falling prey to scams, Seruiratu urged citizens to be cautious and to resist the allure of quick financial gains. He stressed that combating this issue requires a collective effort from all involved parties.
He referenced that in Australia, scam losses in 2023 surpassed $2.7 billion, impacting over 600,000 people, illustrating the serious nature of the crisis and the urgent need for proactive measures.
Furthermore, Seruiratu specifically mentioned the Paragonix Edge scam, which has improperly associated his name and those of other notable Fijians, including Waisale Serevi, Jerry Tuwai, Fred Wesley, and Shania Singh, with a fraudulent scheme. “I want to make it clear that I have no affiliation with this company or system,” he asserted.
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of consumer education in addressing the scam issue and advocating for a society-wide approach that involves collaboration among government bodies, law enforcement, regulators, NGOs, civil society organizations, religious groups, educational institutions, and the community at large. Together, Seruiratu believes they can fight against scams and protect citizens from financial exploitation.