Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew is urging parents and guardians to exercise increased vigilance as families withdraw the recently disbursed back-to-school financial assistance of $200 from the Government. He strongly recommends that children should not be given the responsibility of handling these transactions, emphasizing that adults must take charge to ensure the safety of their funds.

Mr. Chew sounded the alarm about the rising threat of fraud during this financially active period, stating, “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money.” Many parents are expected to be out visiting outlets such as Vodafone Fiji Limited, M-PAiSA agents, banks, and various online platforms to access these funds.

The Commissioner highlighted the critical need for caution when engaging in online transactions. He specifically warned against sharing sensitive personal information, including Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords. “When money goes missing, people often feel frustrated and rush to the Police,” Chew noted, explaining the complexities involved in recovering lost funds, which can be lengthy and involve multiple external agencies.

This advisory comes in the context of previous warnings from the Fiji Police about scams targeting parents during sensitive financial periods. Scammers frequently use platforms like text messages, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook to prey on families, often through unsolicited requests for money or offers that seem too good to be true.

In response to these threats, police authorities are promoting awareness and encouraging families to communicate openly about potential scams. By fostering discussions about common fraud tactics and safe financial practices, the community can strengthen its resilience against financial exploitation.

The emphasis here is not only on individual responsibility but also on collective vigilance. By adopting cautious financial behaviors and staying informed, families can navigate the back-to-school season more securely, creating a safer environment for everyone.

In summary, this advisory serves as a timely reminder for families to remain alert and informed as they manage their finances during this important season. By taking proactive measures, families can protect themselves against the risk of becoming victims of scams, ensuring a smoother and more secure financial experience. Staying vigilant and fostering community awareness will ultimately create a supportive atmosphere where families can thrive without fear of exploitation.