The Fiji Police Force has alerted the public about a scam involving a mobile number impersonating the Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu. This fraudulent scheme involves messages sent via the mobile number 836 9719 on Viber, deceitfully claiming to be from the Police Commissioner while soliciting sponsorship for small projects.
The police have confirmed that the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is actively investigating the scam. These messages have been classified as fraudulent, and authorities are urging anyone who receives them to report such communications immediately. The police have emphasized, “This is a scam,” advising the public to be cautious and not to share any personal or financial information through messaging platforms. They particularly warned against communications from people claiming to represent officials from the public or private sectors without proper verification.
This incident is part of a larger trend of impersonation scams in Fiji. Similar scams have previously targeted mobile phone users, with reports of fraudsters posing as cybercrime police officers or offering fake job opportunities and free cash through Viber. Such schemes often aim to trick individuals into revealing personal information under false pretenses. The Fiji Online Safety Commission has highlighted the need for vigilance when dealing with unsolicited communications, especially those offering unrealistic benefits.
In past incidents, scammers have exploited digital communication platforms to extract money from victims by gaining unauthorized access to their Viber accounts. These fraudulent activities have sometimes resulted in legal charges, including impersonation of police officers and obtaining financial advantage through deception.
As digital communication continues to evolve, scammers are also adapting their tactics. The police and safety commissions are urging the public to enhance their online security measures, such as using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication. By maintaining vigilance and educating themselves about common scam tactics, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to such fraudulent activities.
The community is encouraged to share information about scams and to remain cautious when confronted with suspicious communication. Through collective awareness and heightened security measures, individuals can protect themselves from these criminal activities, ensuring a safer digital environment in Fiji.