Scammers are constantly adapting their methods to stay in line with global trends, according to Shaheen Ali, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications. His statements came during the launch of the first-ever National Scam Awareness Week.
Mr. Ali emphasized the importance of recognizing that scams have sadly become a regular part of life in today’s fast-paced digital world. He discussed the various forms of scams currently affecting Fiji, such as impersonation schemes, fraudulent job offers, and romance scams, which are often fueled by misleading information on social media platforms.
He highlighted that the National Scam Awareness Week serves as a crucial opportunity to educate not only young adults but also future generations on how to identify and protect themselves from scams. The campaign aims to utilize multiple media outlets, including billboards and social media, to enhance public awareness.
In a related concern, the CEO of the Consumer Council of Fiji, Seema Shandil, pointed out the low engagement from consumers during their outreach programs. She noted that it is only after individuals have fallen victim to scams that the demand for their services typically increases.
“Despite our frequent warnings about scams and guidance on how to recognize them, many consumers remain indifferent,” Ms. Shandil remarked. She added that despite extensive awareness efforts both online and in local communities, people often disregard the advice provided.
Unfortunately, this negligence tends to lead consumers to seek assistance only after they have been victimized by scams. Last year, the eBay Online Shop recruitment scam had a significant impact, affecting 900 Fijians and resulting in recorded complaints totaling $1.7 million.
“The damage caused by such scams is merely the beginning of the issue,” Ms. Shandil stated. On a global scale, there has been a notable increase in online fraud, with phishing emails and other deceptive tactics targeting both individuals and businesses.
To combat these challenges, the Anti-Scam Taskforce has been established to foster better coordination among various agencies, enhance public awareness, and advocate for protective measures through initiatives like Scam Awareness Week. The taskforce’s goals include improving public understanding and implementing collaborative educational campaigns, as well as pushing for stricter laws and regulations.