Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has issued a strong warning to parents and guardians regarding the withdrawal of $200 back-to-school financial assistance from the Government. With many families accessing these funds, Mr. Chew emphasizes the importance of adult supervision during this process, advising against allowing children to manage these transactions.

He articulated the potential risks associated with the busy financial period, cautioning, “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money.” Parents are encouraged to withdraw the funds personally from outlets such as Vodafone Fiji Limited, M-PAiSA agents, banks, and online platforms to protect themselves and their finances.

As digital transactions become increasingly commonplace, the Commissioner highlighted the importance of safeguarding personal information, particularly Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords. He explained that if money goes missing, the recovery process can be frustratingly complex and lengthy, often involving law enforcement and other external procedures.

This advisory is aligned with ongoing warnings from the Fiji Police regarding the rise in scams targeting families during sensitive financial moments like back-to-school. Scammers frequently exploit digital communication channels such as text messages, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook to lure individuals into disclosing personal information or making fraudulent transactions.

In response, police authorities are promoting a culture of awareness, urging families to discuss potential scams and safe financial practices openly. This proactive approach not only protects individual families but also fosters a community that is resilient against financial exploitation.

In summary, this warning serves as an important reminder for families to remain vigilant and responsible while managing their finances, especially during the back-to-school season. By staying informed and cautious, families can navigate this financial landscape more securely, ensuring a safer environment for themselves and their communities.

This situation calls for not just individual responsibility but collective action, contributing to a supportive atmosphere where families can thrive without the fear of becoming victims of scams.