The Consumer Council of Fiji has raised alarms about a significant increase in scam activities exploiting digital platforms and financially precarious situations. According to Seema Shandil, the Council’s Chief Executive, from September 2024 to September 2025, there were 113 scam-related complaints, with consumer losses totaling over $82,000.
Despite ongoing warnings and national awareness campaigns, scammers are becoming increasingly adept at deceiving victims. Recent scams include eBay fraud, fake lending schemes, multi-level marketing tricks, phishing, impersonation, and mobile money cons. The Consumer Council is urging vigilance, encouraging consumers to verify sellers, report suspicious activities, and spread awareness within their communities. This effort coincides with the forthcoming National Scams Awareness Week, designed to bring together government agencies, financial institutions, law enforcement, and other partners to develop a unified national defense against scams.
Past initiatives have stressed the significance of continuous education, particularly in digital literacy among consumers. Notable cases like the eBay Online Shop recruitment scam affected 900 Fijians and resulted in $1.7 million in complaints, further emphasizing the critical need for public education and effective protective measures.
Globally, online fraud is on the rise, with phishing tactics targeting both individuals and businesses. To counter this, Fiji has created an Anti-Scam Taskforce to improve inter-agency coordination, increase awareness, and push for stricter legal measures.
The persistent increase in scam activities underscores the imperative need for ongoing education and vigilance to protect against fraud. The collaborative efforts during awareness weeks and by taskforces play a crucial role in building national resilience, reinforcing the value of proactive strategies. By enhancing public understanding and vigilance, Fiji is committed to safeguarding its citizens from the growing threats posed by digital fraud.