The Criminal Investigations Department’s Cybercrime Division has taken into custody a 34-year-old man who allegedly circulated fraudulent Viber messages while impersonating the Commissioner of Police. The suspect, arrested in Wainibuku, is currently held at the Nakasi Police Station. According to authorities, he is accused of using specific mobile numbers to impersonate the police commissioner, Rusiate Tuidravu, to solicit money from unsuspecting victims. Police are encouraging anyone who may have received such messages to report them to the investigation team directly.
The case is part of a broader effort by law enforcement to tackle online impersonation fraud, an issue highlighted by a recent, similar incident involving a couple from Labasa. This couple faces charges of Unauthorized Access, Obtaining Financial Advantage by Deception, and Impersonation as a Police Officer. Their scheme involved accessing Viber accounts and deceiving prominent individuals into divulging sensitive information to solicit funds. This underscores the growing challenge posed by cybercrime and the critical need for vigilance in protecting personal information online.
These incidents serve as timely reminders about internet scams’ evolving nature and reinforce the importance of cybersecurity awareness. As many people continue to rely heavily on digital communication for personal and professional interactions, staying informed and taking appropriate steps to safeguard sensitive information becomes essential.
With ongoing investigations, law enforcement hopes to deter future fraudulent activities. By prioritizing cybersecurity education, communities can better protect themselves from such deceptive practices, fostering a safer online environment for everyone.