The Fiji Police Force has issued a warning to the public about a scam involving an individual impersonating Commissioner Rusiate Tuidravu. Fraudulent messages are being spread through Viber using the number +679 836 9719, soliciting financial aid for supposed small-scale projects. The police have confirmed these messages are part of a scam and are advising recipients to neither respond nor engage with the number, urging them to block such communications.
The Criminal Investigations Department is diligently investigating to determine the source of these fraudulent messages and to identify the scammer. Authorities warn that this scam is part of a wider trend of digital fraud, stressing the importance of not sharing personal or financial information with individuals claiming to represent the government or any organization online.
In recent months, Fiji has experienced an increase in reports of similar scams, highlighting the necessity for heightened vigilance. Scammers often impersonate officials or authoritative figures to extract personal data or money, taking advantage of technological platforms to create convincing narratives. The Fiji Online Safety Commission, alongside the Police, has previously issued advisories highlighting the prevalence of these scams which prey on unwary individuals.
To safeguard themselves, the public is advised to verify the authenticity of any messages requesting personal or financial information. Suspected fraudulent communications should be reported to local authorities. The emphasis remains on public education to enhance community resilience against such fraudulent practices. Through awareness and shared knowledge about common scam tactics, Fijians can enhance their safety online and contribute to establishing a secure digital community.
This concerted effort aims to protect individuals from falling victim to scams and fosters a culture of caution and vigilance. By staying informed and supporting each other, the community can work collectively to mitigate the threats posed by online scammers.