Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has urged parents and guardians to exercise heightened vigilance during the withdrawal of the $200 back-to-school financial assistance from the government. He cautioned against allowing children to handle these financial transactions, emphasizing that adults should take full responsibility to protect the funds from potential scams.

While many families are expected to access their assistance from outlets like Vodafone Fiji Limited, M-PAiSA agents, and banks, Chew highlighted the risk posed by opportunistic fraudsters during this busy period. “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money,” he remarked, stressing the necessity for parents to remain alert and careful.

Particular caution is advised when engaging in online transactions, especially regarding the sharing of sensitive personal information, including Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords. Chew elaborated that recovering lost funds can be a frustrating and complex process that often involves law enforcement and various external agencies.

This advisory aligns with broader warnings from the Fiji Police about the increasing prevalence of scams targeting parents during financially sensitive periods. Past advisories have also indicated that scammers frequently exploit popular messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Viber, Facebook, and text messages, with unsolicited requests for money becoming a common tactic.

Authorities are promoting community awareness and encouraging families to openly discuss these issues, ensuring everyone is informed about common scams and safe financial practices. Such proactive engagement not only protects individual families but bolsters community resilience against financial exploitation.

In summary, this advisory serves as a crucial reminder for families to stay informed and vigilant while managing their finances during this important season. By fostering a culture of awareness and exercising cautious financial behaviors, families can navigate this period more securely, contributing to a supportive community where they can thrive without the fear of falling victim to scams. This collective effort ensures a more secure environment for everyone involved.