The Police M-PAiSA Task Force is intensifying its efforts to combat the troubling rise in scams targeting users of the M-PAiSA platform. Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, has issued a critical advisory urging the public to remain vigilant while withdrawing funds, particularly during the distribution of the Government’s Back to School Assistance funds, which amount to $200.

With families accessing these funds, Fong Chew emphasized the crucial role of adult supervision, strongly advising against allowing children or unaccompanied individuals to handle financial transactions. “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money,” he warned, highlighting the risks involved during this financially sensitive time.

The Acting Commissioner also cautioned the public about the importance of protecting sensitive personal information, such as Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords. He noted that recovering lost funds can be a complicated and lengthy process involving law enforcement, making vigilance even more critical.

This advisory aligns with prior communications from the Fiji Police, which have indicated a significant increase in fraudulent activities during financially active periods like the back-to-school season. Scammers frequently exploit popular communication platforms—including text messaging, Viber, WhatsApp, and Facebook—to make unsolicited requests for money or personal information.

In response to this climate of increased fraud, the police are actively promoting community awareness and education initiatives aimed at empowering families to recognize and respond to potential scams. Discussions about common scams and the adoption of safe financial practices are encouraged to help families bolster their defenses against financial exploitation.

In summary, the current initiatives stress the importance of vigilance and responsible financial behavior. By staying informed and proactive, families can navigate their financial dealings more securely, creating a supportive and engaged community that stands firm against potential fraud. This collective focus not only aims to protect individual interests but also fosters community ties, promoting a safer environment for everyone involved.