Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew is urging parents and guardians to exercise increased vigilance while withdrawing the $200 back-to-school financial assistance provided by the Government. He strongly advises against allowing children to manage these transactions, emphasizing that adults should take full responsibility to safeguard the funds from potential fraud.

Chew expressed concerns about the risks posed by opportunistic scam artists during this busy financial period, stating, “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money.” As families make use of services from outlets such as Vodafone Fiji Limited, M-PAiSA agents, banks, and online platforms, it is crucial for parents to remain alert and cautious.

In his advisory, Chew highlighted the significance of being careful when sharing sensitive personal information, particularly during online transactions. He warned against sharing Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords, noting that recovering lost funds can be a frustrating and lengthy process involving law enforcement and various external agencies.

This advisory aligns with recent alerts from the Fiji Police about the rise in scams that primarily target families during sensitive times, such as back-to-school seasons. The authorities encourage families to be skeptical of unsolicited financial requests received through communication platforms like text messages, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook, which are commonly exploited by scammers.

To mitigate these risks, the police are promoting a culture of community awareness. Families are encouraged to have open discussions about potential scams and educate themselves on safe financial practices. By fostering collective vigilance, the aim is to create a supportive environment that can effectively deter financial exploitation.

In summary, this advisory serves as an important reminder for families to remain informed and proactive in managing their finances during this critical period. By adopting cautious behaviors and maintaining open communication within their communities, families can navigate these financial transactions more securely, contributing to a safer environment where everyone can thrive without fear of scams.