The Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, is urging the public to be cautious of scams like the Paragonix scam, which has illicitly used the names and images of notable Fijians to promote deceptive schemes.
In his statement, Seruiratu emphasized that as Scam Awareness Week comes to an end, it is crucial for Fijians to stay alert against the increasing threat of scams that cause significant financial and emotional distress to individuals and families.
He pointed out that despite the efforts of the Consumer Council and the Police Force, the number of reported scams is rising, often going unreported, and is being fueled by issues like poverty, unemployment, and the complexities associated with global digital advancements.
“A collaborative effort from all sectors of society is vital to tackle this escalating threat and safeguard citizens from exploitation. Even with ongoing initiatives from the Consumer Council and Police Force, the number of victims continues to climb,” Seruiratu remarked.
He noted that the true scope of the issue is likely understated, a common challenge faced by many developing nations in navigating digital complexities.
According to him, advancements in technology and increased global connectivity provide opportunities for scammers to take advantage of vulnerable individuals, with factors such as poverty, joblessness, and rising living costs further worsening the situation.
Seruiratu advised citizens to be aware of the potential risks and to resist the lure of quick profits to avoid becoming victims of scams. He emphasized that combating this issue requires a comprehensive effort from all parties involved.
He pointed to the alarming statistics in Australia, where scam losses in 2023 exceeded $2.7 billion, affecting over 600,000 individuals, highlighting the seriousness of the issue and the urgent need for effective action.
Seruiratu specifically mentioned the Paragonix Edge scam, stating that it has improperly used his name and images, as well as those of other prominent Fijians including Waisale Serevi, Jerry Tuwai, Fred Wesley, and Shania Singh, to advertise a fraudulent scheme.
“I want to make it clear that I have no affiliation with this company or its system. Educating consumers is essential in addressing the scam issue, but a whole-of-society approach is necessary,” he added.
“This collaboration must involve government bodies, law enforcement, regulators, NGOs, civil society organizations, religious institutions, the education sector, and the broader community. Together, we can combat scams and shield our citizens from financial exploitation,” Seruiratu concluded.