FCCC collaborates with GASA to protect consumers from scams in Fiji

In a bid to protect the vulnerable from falling victim to scams, the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has collaborated with the Global Anti-Scam Alliance to bolster consumer protection in Fiji.

In a statement by FCCC, this collaboration comes at a critical time when the vulnerability of consumers in Fiji has significantly increased due to the growing sophistication of fraudulent schemes.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications Manoa Kamikamica commended the new initiative and said the partnership would significantly bolster current anti-scam efforts in Fiji and the workings of the Anti–Scam Taskforce.

Kamikamica says scams today know no borders, and it is extremely valuable for an international organization like GASA to provide its expertise to a Fijian regulatory agency.

FCCC Acting CEO Pranil Singh says this collaboration is a proactive step towards creating a safer marketplace for all Fijians and, potentially, other island nations in the region.

Singh says vulnerable members of society, particularly the elderly, or those with limited digital literacy, are at high risk of falling victim to scams.

He says scammers are also constantly evolving their tactics, making it imperative for the FCCC to stay ahead by equipping consumers with the necessary knowledge and tools.

Singh says GASA will provide technical support to FCCC, enhancing its capacity to detect and combat scams using advanced technologies and methodologies.

He says regular surveys will be conducted to gauge the current state of scams in Fiji.

Singh says a system of early alerts will be established to warn consumers about new scams as soon as they are detected, helping to prevent potential losses.