Fiji Police warn of rising AI-driven cyber threats as over 544,000 Fijians now use social media

With over 544,000 Fijians registered social media users as of January 2024, the Fiji Police Force says high digital exposure, AI-driven attacks, and financial fraud are major challenges currently facing them when it comes to fighting cyber crime.

The force’s liaison officer to the Online Safety Commission, Inspector Salote Vuniwaqa says that despite the lack of manpower, they are leading investigations into cyber crime because they have the capabilities and infrastructure to assist.

She further says they also face challenges in getting people to court but they are working closely with Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and other stakeholders.

Vuniwaqa says another key challenge they are currently facing is AI-driven attacks, along with various types of technology-related financial fraud and adds even educated people may lack sufficient digital literacy.

She says this is why they believe grassroots communities should be the primary focus for raising awareness and improving digital literacy as these are the people most frequently exposed to online risks, often on a daily basis, yet many do not know how to respond.

The Police Inspector adds the Cyber Crime team and community policing officers, who serve the public every day, are actively visiting communities to raise awareness and share vital information.