The Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, is urging parents and guardians to exercise heightened vigilance during the recent disbursement of the Government’s back-to-school assistance. He has advised against allowing children to take on the task of withdrawing the $200 assistance from Vodafone Fiji Limited outlets, M-PAiSA agents, banks, or online platforms.

Mr. Chew highlighted the potential risks associated with money transactions, stating that individuals should not underestimate the possibility of encountering opportunistic scammers. “You don’t know who is at the side line exploring the opportunity to steal information or money,” he cautioned. Parents should take direct responsibility for ensuring the safe handling of these funds rather than delegating the task to their children.

Notably, this advisory aligns with broader warnings issued by the Fiji Police Force regarding the rising prevalence of scams, particularly those targeting parents during the financially sensitive back-to-school season. Previous advisories emphasized the importance of skepticism towards unsolicited requests for money received via popular communication platforms, including text messages, Viber, WhatsApp, and Facebook, which fraudsters frequently exploit.

Police stress that individuals must be particularly careful when it comes to sharing personal information, such as PINs and passwords, as falling victim to scams can lead to financial frustration. Mr. Chew explained that once funds are lost, recovery may not be straightforward, as there are established processes involving law enforcement that can be time-consuming.

The police are fostering a culture of community awareness and caution, encouraging families to discuss these issues openly, share knowledge about common scams, and remain informed. Such proactive measures can significantly bolster community resilience against financial exploitation, promoting responsible spending and safety during this crucial financial period.

In sum, this initiative not only aims to protect families from fraud but also to cultivate a supportive community environment where individuals can thrive without fear of being victimized by scams. By promoting awareness and careful financial practices, the Fiji Police are working to fortify the safety and well-being of the community during this critical school season.