The Anti-Scam Taskforce of Fiji is launching a major campaign to combat the increasing number of online scams targeting Fijians. In a recent meeting, the Taskforce unveiled a comprehensive strategy designed to raise public awareness and implement proactive measures to address this growing threat.
The Taskforce’s multi-faceted approach aims to create a safer online environment for Fijians. Key priorities include enhancing public awareness, strengthening institutional frameworks, pursuing legal reforms, and launching targeted educational initiatives. The Fiji Government continues to actively inform and alert the public about various scams that threaten their hard-earned money.
In a significant step, the Taskforce announced the first-ever National Anti-Scam Awareness Week, scheduled for 26-30 August 2024.
“Scam threats continue to evolve. Every single one of us must be vigilant and have the know-how to detect and easily identify scams,” said Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica.
He highlighted the collaborative efforts of Taskforce members to review legislation, identify gaps, and most importantly, advocate and raise awareness about emerging scams.
The Acting Prime Minister also expressed appreciation for the support from the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), which is helping to equip individuals, from business owners to students, with the knowledge and skills to recognise, report, and avoid scams. “We are proud to lead this significant initiative, which is the first of its kind in Fiji. Scam Awareness Week will provide an invaluable platform for educating the public about the various forms of scams and the measures they can take to protect themselves,” said Chief Executive Officer for CCoF, Ms Seema Shandil.
Throughout the week, a series of activities, including workshops, seminars, and public forums, will be conducted nationwide to engage and educate the public. Key topics will include identifying common scams, understanding fraudsters’ methods, and knowing where and how to report suspicious activities.
UNCDF Regional Programme Manager, Mr Ali Akram, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “Online scams erode trust and confidence in digital finance services. We are happy to support this major initiative, with backing from our donors, including the European Union and the Australian and New Zealand Governments. This will help equip the public with the information they need to navigate the digital world with ease, confidence, and good judgement.”
The Taskforce also provided updates on new scams and ongoing cases, particularly eBay scams, which have significantly affected many Fijians. The Fiji Police Force reported that of the 104 fraudulent cases charged, two have led to convictions and sentences, demonstrating that justice is being served. “No one is above the law. Those responsible will be held accountable for their actions,” affirmed Acting Prime Minister Kamikamica.
The Taskforce is also mandated to review and examine existing legislation with relevant agencies to strengthen enforcement and advocacy powers to combat scams. To report new scams, the public can contact CCoF’s toll-free hotline at 155.
Support Our Journalism
Global Indian Diaspora and Australia’s multicultural communities need fair, non-hyphenated, and questioning journalism, packed with on-ground reporting. The Australia Today – with exceptional reporters, columnists, and editors – is doing just that. Sustaining this needs support from wonderful readers like you.
Whether you live in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States of America, or India you can take a paid subscription by clicking Patreon and support honest and fearless journalism.
