The Acting Commissioner of Police, Juki Fong Chew, has issued an urgent warning to parents and guardians regarding the withdrawal of back-to-school financial assistance. As families access the $200 support provided by the Government, he strongly advises against allowing children to manage these transactions. Instead, he emphasizes that adults should take full responsibility for handling these withdrawals to prevent potential scams.

Mr. Chew raised concerns about opportunistic fraudsters who may exploit the busy periods surrounding these financial transactions. “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money,” he cautioned. Given the rising incidence of scams, especially during sensitive financial seasons, he underscores the need for vigilance when withdrawing funds from outlets like Vodafone Fiji Limited, M-PAiSA agents, banks, and online services.

A particular focus is placed on the risks associated with online transactions, where the sharing of sensitive personal information, such as Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords, can lead to significant financial loss. Chew warned that recovering lost funds can be a complicated process, often requiring police involvement and lengthy procedures, which can heighten frustration for affected families.

This advisory builds on previous warnings from the Fiji Police regarding the increasing prevalence of scams that specifically target parents during financially active periods, often communicated through platforms like text messages, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook. As such, the police encourage families to remain skeptical of unsolicited financial requests and to engage in open discussions about common scams within their communities.

The overarching goal of this initiative is to foster a culture of awareness, responsibility, and community support, ultimately enhancing resilience against financial exploitation. By encouraging responsible financial practices and proactive measures, families can navigate this back-to-school season with greater confidence, safeguarding their finances and contributing to a safer environment for everyone.

In summary, this advisory serves as a crucial reminder for families to maintain vigilance during this sensitive time, promoting a cooperative effort to protect against fraud. By staying informed and cautious, families can ensure safer transactions and strengthen their community ties against potential threats.