The Consumer Council of Fiji (CCoF) has reported receiving 113 scam-related complaints between September 2024 and September 2025, cumulatively resulting in financial losses of over $82,000. Despite this seeming moderate figure, the Council emphasizes that the actual number of scam victims in Fiji is likely much higher. Many cases remain unreported, as victims fear embarrassment or public judgment.
This persistence of scams continues despite widespread awareness campaigns. Fraudsters have transitioned to exploiting social media platforms, mobile wallets, and informal lending schemes to entrap unsuspecting victims. These scams often promise quick financial returns, cater to emotional vulnerabilities, or mimic reputable institutions.
Notably, the now-infamous eBay scam, which swindled victims out of thousands, highlighted the sophistication of these fraudulent activities. Early indications of these scams were found in fraudulent lending and informal finance schemes frequently encountered by the Council. Over time, scammers have diversified their approaches to include multi-level marketing scams, fake investment schemes, malicious astrology or fortune-telling services, phishing messages, impersonation frauds, and mobile money frauds.
In response to these developments, the Consumer Council of Fiji is urging all consumers to exercise vigilance. It recommends scrutinizing the legitimacy of schemes and sellers, reporting any suspicious activities, and encouraging open dialogue with family and the community to raise awareness and prevent further victimization.
This call to action is bolstered by initiatives like the Government’s Anti-Scam Taskforce, which was established in response to the rising threat of scams, particularly the eBay scam that has caused substantial financial hardships. The taskforce aims to improve surveillance systems, strengthen institutional frameworks, and enhance public education and awareness campaigns. There’s also a push for creating a dedicated agency to combat scams, which, as highlighted by Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, is essential for effectively managing the increasingly complex fraud landscape.
By maintaining robust awareness campaigns and forming strategic defenses against fraud, there is hope that Fiji can substantially reduce the negative impacts of scams and protect its community from financial harm.