The Fijian public’s susceptibility to online scams has been highlighted once again following the circulation of a manipulated video featuring Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) Governor Ariff Ali. This deceptive video, which began appearing on social media in July, utilized Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create a false narrative where the Governor was seen endorsing an investment scheme promising extraordinary returns. In the video, Ali purportedly invited viewers to invest as little as $550 with the misleading promise of earning $18,000 in a month.
The RBF has expressed its concern over the rising number of inquiries from the public regarding this scam. Acting Deputy Governor Vilimaina Dakai noted that these inquiries indicate a growing interest in the fraudulent scheme. She emphasized the alarming ease with which the public is misled by AI-generated content, citing that many viewers are unable to discern subtle signs of manipulation within the video.
Dakai pointed out that the advertised monthly return of over 3000% is an unrealistic expectation for any legitimate investment. In a context that echoes past scams, such as the e-Bay scheme that previously targeted uninformed individuals, the central bank is ramping up its efforts to educate the public on identifying fraudulent schemes. She confirmed that the RBF does not engage in investment services and urged citizens to remain vigilant against any proposals that appear too good to be true.
Moreover, this incident reflects a broader trend of scams employing advanced AI technology to exploit the public’s trust in well-known figures. Recent findings from the global anti-scam community indicate that similar scams have surfaced in various countries, including Sri Lanka, India, and Romania. The RBF is collaborating with media outlets, such as FijiTV, to combat misinformation and to remind citizens of the importance of verifying information from credible sources.
In combating this ongoing issue, awareness and education remain vital. The Anti-Scam Taskforce and Consumer Council of Fiji continue to push for vigilance among the public, urging the importance of recognizing red flags such as promises of significant returns, and to report any suspicious content or offers promptly.
As the situation unfolds, the collaborative efforts of government entities, law enforcement, and educational initiatives provide a hopeful outlook. By fostering an informed and cautious public, the hope is to mitigate the risks associated with increasingly sophisticated scams, ensuring that individuals can navigate investment opportunities safely and securely.