Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has issued a significant warning to parents and guardians regarding the withdrawal of the $200 back-to-school financial assistance from the Government. As many families engage in this important financial task, he strongly advises against allowing children to handle any transactions, emphasizing that adults must take full responsibility to protect these funds.

Mr. Chew highlighted the risk posed by fraudsters who may exploit this busy financial period, cautioning, “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money.” As families prepare to withdraw assistance from various outlets, including Vodafone Fiji Limited, M-PAiSA agents, banks, and online services, the need for vigilance is imperative.

He underscored the importance of safeguarding personal information, particularly during online transactions, warning against sharing sensitive details such as Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords. Chew noted that recovering funds lost to scams can be a frustrating and complex process, often requiring police involvement and lengthy procedures with external agencies.

This advisory aligns with broader alerts from the Fiji Police about the rise of scams targeting parents during this financially sensitive back-to-school season, where fraudsters often exploit digital communication channels like text messages, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook to lure individuals into revealing personal information or making fraudulent transactions.

In response to these threats, police are promoting a culture of awareness, urging families to discuss potential scams and safe financial practices openly. By cultivating collective vigilance, the police aim to build a supportive community environment that protects families and enhances resilience against financial exploitation.

In summary, this advisory serves as a crucial reminder for families to practice responsible financial behavior during this critical period. By adopting cautious practices and engaging in open dialogue, families can navigate the financial landscape more securely, fostering a safe environment for everyone and contributing to a community shielded from scams.

This article encourages not just individual responsibility but collective action, fostering a sense of community that is vital in navigating challenges together.