Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has issued an important reminder to parents and guardians during the ongoing withdrawal of the government’s back-to-school financial assistance of $200. He strongly advises against entrusting children with the management of these funds, stressing that adults should handle all financial transactions directly to minimize the risk of fraud.

As many families engage in this crucial financial activity, Chew expressed concerns over the potential presence of opportunistic fraudsters looking to exploit the busy period. “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money,” he cautioned. This warning is particularly relevant as families utilize various services, including Vodafone Fiji Limited outlets, M-PAiSA agents, banks, and online platforms, to access their assistance funds.

Moreover, Chew highlighted the growing risks associated with online transactions, warning against the sharing of sensitive personal information such as Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords. The recovery of lost funds can become a lengthy and complicated ordeal due to the necessary involvement of law enforcement and the processes required to trace the funds.

This advisory aligns with previous warnings from the Fiji Police regarding the rise in scams targeting parents during sensitive financial periods, particularly through platforms like text messages, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook, where scams are prevalent. Parents have been encouraged to exercise skepticism toward unsolicited financial requests that may be fraudulent in nature.

To combat these challenges, the police are promoting a culture of awareness within the community. Families are urged to discuss potential scams openly and share knowledge on safe financial practices, thus enhancing collective resilience against financial exploitation.

In summary, Acting Commissioner Chew’s advisory serves as a crucial reminder for families to stay vigilant during this significant time, where the stakes are high and the presence of fraudsters is a critical concern. By being informed and acting cautiously, families can navigate their financial transactions securely and contribute to a safer community atmosphere. Such proactive measures not only protect individual interests but also foster a spirit of cooperation that empowers families to thrive without fear of vulnerability.