Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has recently issued a cautionary message directed at parents and guardians regarding the withdrawal of the government’s $200 back-to-school financial assistance. He strongly underscores the importance of maintaining vigilance during this busy period, advising against allowing children to manage these financial transactions.

Mr. Chew emphasized the risks posed by opportunistic fraudsters who may exploit the situation. “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money,” he remarked. This advisory is particularly pertinent as many families utilize outlets like Vodafone Fiji Limited, M-PAiSA agents, banks, and various online platforms to access their funds.

He highlighted the increasing dangers associated with online transactions, noting the need for individuals to be particularly cautious when sharing sensitive information, such as Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords. The Commissioner reminded families that once funds are lost to scams, recovering them can be a frustrating process, often requiring the involvement of law enforcement and following complex procedures.

This warning follows ongoing alerts from the Fiji Police regarding the rise in scams specifically targeting families during sensitive financial periods, especially back-to-school. Parents are urged to be skeptical of unsolicited requests for money, particularly those received through digital communication platforms like text messages, WhatsApp, Viber, and Facebook, which scammers frequently exploit.

The police are advocating for a culture of awareness and encouraging families to discuss potential scams and safe financial practices. This proactive approach aims to bolster community resilience against financial exploitation and protect the interests of families during this crucial period.

In summary, Acting Commissioner Chew’s advisory serves as a vital reminder for families to be alert and informed while managing their finances. By adopting responsible financial behaviors and encouraging open discussions within their communities, families can navigate the back-to-school season more safely and confidently, contributing to a supportive environment where the risk of scams is significantly mitigated. This collective vigilance not only safeguards individual interests but also enhances the overall security of the community, allowing families to thrive without fear of becoming victims of fraud.