Government of the Republic of Fiji
Government of the Republic of Fiji
05/09/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/09/2024 04:44
HON. MANOA KAMIKAMICA PROGRESS MADE BY THE ANTI–SCAM TASKFORCE AND RECENTLY CONCLUDED NATIONAL...
Honourable Speaker of Parliament, Turaga Bale na Tui Cakau,
The Honourable Prime Minister,
Honourable Deputy Prime Ministers,
Honourable Leader of the Opposition,
Honourable Cabinet Ministers and Assistant Ministers,
Honourable Members of Parliament,
Your Excellencies, High Commissioners, Ambassadors and Members of the Diplomatic Corp,
The People of Fiji who may be listening to this Broadcast through Walesi or livestreaming or listening on Radio today.
Bula Vinaka and Good Morning to you all.
Mr Speaker Sir,
On every occasion I get asked how do you think the Government is doing, my response is we are building, "My response is we are rebuilding a house. A house called our beloved Fiji".
I rise to inform this August House on the progress made towards the establishment of the 'Anti-Scam Taskforce' along with the recently concluded 'National Scam Awareness Week' that are aimed to address the escalating threat of scams and urgent need for a coordinated nationwide response. This is very much a part of building the new Fiji.
BACKGROUND
The rapid evolution of technology in Fiji has brought with tremendous opportunities for growth, communication, innovation, bridging the digital divide and access to these essential financial services. However, it has also given rise to a dark side that we cannot ignore-the increasing sophistication and prevalence of scams and unscrupulous behaviour.
For a fact, the economy is increasingly shifting towards digitalisation with 4.72 billion internet users that represents 60.1% of the global population. The Global State of Scams Report 2022 revealed a concerning trend in digital fraud, with reported scams increasing by 10.2%, from 266 million in 2020 to 293 million in 2021.
The amount of money losses from scams surged by 15.7%, rising from $47.8 billion in 2020 to $55.3 billion in 2021, largely driven by a rise in investment scams.
In fact, from our neighbouring shore, Australia, 96% of Australians have been exposed to a scam in the last 5 years with half of these contacted weekly or daily by scammers.
Mr Speaker Sir,
We have seen a significant rise in online scams and fraud, with many Fijians falling victim to these deceitful tactics. For instance, the Consumer Council of Fiji has received more than 1,700 complaints in relation to all scams since 2019, worth over $3 million dollars.
We have witnessed various types of scams and fraud, including online scams that employ phishing emails and text messages (with active links), as well as impersonation of business owners, Chief Executive Officers and Industry Captains to facilitate fund transfers via mobile wallets.
Investment scams have also been on the rise, where fraudsters sell inaccurate or non-existent products or ideas to desperate investors looking to get rich quickly.
ANTI - SCAM TASKFORCE
Mr Speaker Sir,
The eBay shop online recruitment scam, one of the largest in Fiji's history, has had a devastating impact on our people and brought national attention to this growing threat. The perpetrators preyed on the trust and hope of individuals, leaving them not only financially crippled but also deeply disillusioned.
The Consumer Council of Fiji and Fiji Police Force had reported that around $3 million was lost to eBay scams; however, the true impact is likely much more severe, potentially reaching ten times the reported figure, as estimated by RBF.
This staggering estimate reflects not only the financial losses but also the immense human toll on victims, many of whom have refrained from reporting their losses due to fear or shame. Given the number of unreported cases and the vulnerability of many victims, the actual scale of the eBay scam's impact on Fiji could be far greater than the official figures suggest.
Mr Speaker Sir,
This scam had a national impact where the victims transcended all segments of our society - including civil servants, teachers and professionals.
Thus, there is an urgent need for greater public awareness, coordinated response, and strengthened enforcement mechanisms to protect citizens against evolving online threats, prompting the Government to take decisive action and establish the 'Anti-Scam Taskforce'.
This multi-agency initiative is aimed at tackling the growing problem of fraud through enhanced scam surveillance, strengthening institutional framework and targeted awareness campaigns involving various stakeholders.
The Taskforce also has long-term plans to focus on legislative enhancements, and educational programmes (including curriculum development to build IT knowledge) to empower vulnerable communities and create a safer online environment for all Fijians through vigilance and collaboration.
Mr Speaker Sir,
The Taskforce, chaired by me, unites representatives from diverse Government agencies and private sectors, including:
1. Consumer Council of Fiji;
2. Fijian Commerce and Consumer Commission;
3. Online Safety Commission;
4. Fiji Police Force;
5. Ministry of Local Government;
6. Reserve Bank of Fiji; and
7. Office of the Solicitor - General.
To effectively tackle the increasing prevalence of scams in Fiji, a comprehensive approach is essential. That is why, telecommunication providers such as Vodafone Fiji and Digicel Fiji are part of the Taskforce to address the issue of scams more effectively across the nation.
NATIONAL SCAM AWARENESS WEEK
Mr Speaker Sir,
The most significant initiative spearheaded by the Anti-Scam Taskforce recently is the 'National Scams Awareness Week'. This week-long campaign is a strategic response to the growing threat of scams, designed to educate, engage and empower the general public, particularly our youths.
The centrepiece of the National Scams Awareness Week was the National Symposium held at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, with over 200 participants for the 3 days. This symposium brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Government officials, private sector leaders, representatives from international organisations, technical experts and civil society.
I would like to acknowledge and thank the United Nations Capital Development Fund, the Pacific Digital Economy Programme, and the Governments of Australia, New Zealand and the European Union for bringing National Scams Awareness Week to life.
In the span of three days, a series of insightful panel discussions and presentations provided an overview of the challenges related to scam prevention in Fiji.
On the first two days, the symposium featured a range of discussions aimed at understanding the evolving nature of scams and their impact across different sectors - kicking off with a panel discussion on the "Emerging Landscape of Scams in Fiji", where representatives from various bodies shared their experiences and insights into the most recent trends in fraudulent activities.
Mr Speaker Sir,
The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Council also shared the importance of protecting MSMEs from scams, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities faced by MSMEs.
The third day of the symposium was dedicated to engaging the youth, recognising their pivotal role in the digital age. The day featured a workshop tailored specifically for young people, which included an inter-tertiary debate between the University of the South Pacific, University of Fiji and the Fiji National University, as well as youth panels.
We focused on the role of youths in promoting digital literacy and safeguarding their personal information online, emphasising the importance of privacy and security in the digital landscape.
OTHER INITIATIVES
Mr Speaker Sir,
The initiative extends beyond National Scam Awareness Week, as the Taskforce actively promotes awareness through billboards placed at Vatuwaqa Primary School and Nakasi Roundabout.
Additionally, in partnership with Vodafone Fiji, SMS blasts have been sent out and will continue to be disseminated to further enhance public awareness.
The Consumer Council of Fiji has launched the National TikTok Competition. This initiative aims to engage our youth and encourage them to create and share impactful content that raises awareness about the importance of recognizing and avoiding scams.
Mr Speaker Sir,
In addition to these national initiatives, the Consumer Council of Fiji has taken the lead in conducting community visits and workshops throughout the country. These face-to-face interactions are crucial, particularly in areas where access to digital platforms may be limited.
By bringing the message directly to the people, we ensure that scam awareness is not just a topic of discussion but a lived reality. These workshops involve traders, schools, universities, and local community groups.
Mr Speaker Sir,
Community engagement is more than ever crucial in our fight against scams. By working with local leaders, community groups, and civil society, we can foster a culture of vigilance and mutual support.
Partnerships with the private sector, particularly in industries such as telecommunications and banking, are also critical. These partnerships can help us deploy resources more effectively and ensure that our efforts are coordinated and comprehensive.
While the Taskforce is creating nationwide awareness on the ongoing scams onshore, I am pleased to inform this August House that an important initiative to strengthen the legislative framework is underway, with the support of our donor agency.
This review will be benchmarked against international best practices, ensuring that laws are not only up-to-date but also effective in addressing the evolving nature of scams. The consultant intends to provide key recommendations for areas of change, helping us to align our legal framework with global standards and enhance our capacity to protect our citizens.
Mr Speaker Sir,
Furthermore, FCCC has joined the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) and the Oceanic Chapter of GASA to enhance its ability to tackle scams more effectively. It is aimed to raise awareness, provide practical tools, facilitate knowledge sharing, and conduct research and educational events.
Through this partnership, the FCCC has gained access to critical tools such as the ScamAdviser platform, which enables better detection and filtering of potentially harmful online scams. Moreover, the wealth of shared knowledge and expertise within GASA will be instrumental in strengthening our defenses against emerging threats.
In line with these efforts, the FCCC is currently conducting a State of Scams survey in collaboration with GASA. This Survey aims to gather valuable insights into the types of scams affecting Fijians and identify strategies for more targeted and effective interventions moving forward.
NATIONAL EFFORTS IN DIGITAL SPACE
Mr Speaker Sir,
In an increasingly digital world, technological advancements and robust cybersecurity measures are essential. We must continue to invest in tools and technologies that will protect our citizens from online threats. This includes not only the security of our digital infrastructure and the development of secure systems but also the promotion of basic cyber hygiene practices among our citizens.
The Government is actively investing in the safety and security of our citizens and businesses in the digital space. One of our major initiatives is developing the National Cybersecurity Strategy. This important strategy will strengthen our cyber security posture, boost resilience, and improve our ability to respond to the ever evolving cyber threats.
Mr Speaker Sir,
Concurrently, Fiji has also deposited its instruments of accession of the Budapest Convention. This landmark Convention is the only binding legal framework that will allow prompt international cooperation to criminalise and prosecute cybercrimes. Through this Convention, Fiji also has access to the 24/7 Network Point of Contacts which will ensure that we get swift international cooperation during cybercrime investigations.
On several occasions you have raised in this August House that Fiji has now ratified the Budapest Convention. Sir, this landmark Convention allows us to cooperate internationally to combat transnational crimes that involve digital information. It also allows us to build capacity in agencies like the Cyber Crimes Unit, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Attorney General's Chambers.
CONCLUSION
Mr Speaker Sir,
We must acknowledge that the issue of scams is not unique to Fiji. In fact, many of the tactics used by scammers in Fiji are imported from or inspired by similar fraudulent schemes that have been successfully executed in other countries.
Countries like the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom, despite their advanced technological infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, continue to grapple with the challenge of preventing and mitigating scams. These nations have seen a rise in various forms of online fraud, from phishing and identity theft to complex investment scams that have cost individuals and businesses billions of dollars.
Mr Speaker Sir,
Through various means and advocacy on scams and fraud protection, I have always said and would like to reiterate in this August House - if the offer seems too good to be true, it's likely a scam. Proceed with extreme caution.
Together, let us build a brighter future for the general public where trusts, integrity and security are upheld.
Vinaka Vakalevu.
The Honourable Prime Minister,
Honourable Deputy Prime Ministers,
Honourable Leader of the Opposition,
Honourable Cabinet Ministers and Assistant Ministers,
Honourable Members of Parliament,
Your Excellencies, High Commissioners, Ambassadors and Members of the Diplomatic Corp,
The People of Fiji who may be listening to this Broadcast through Walesi or livestreaming or listening on Radio today.
Bula Vinaka and Good Morning to you all.
Mr Speaker Sir,
On every occasion I get asked how do you think the Government is doing, my response is we are building, "My response is we are rebuilding a house. A house called our beloved Fiji".
I rise to inform this August House on the progress made towards the establishment of the 'Anti-Scam Taskforce' along with the recently concluded 'National Scam Awareness Week' that are aimed to address the escalating threat of scams and urgent need for a coordinated nationwide response. This is very much a part of building the new Fiji.
BACKGROUND
The rapid evolution of technology in Fiji has brought with tremendous opportunities for growth, communication, innovation, bridging the digital divide and access to these essential financial services. However, it has also given rise to a dark side that we cannot ignore-the increasing sophistication and prevalence of scams and unscrupulous behaviour.
For a fact, the economy is increasingly shifting towards digitalisation with 4.72 billion internet users that represents 60.1% of the global population. The Global State of Scams Report 2022 revealed a concerning trend in digital fraud, with reported scams increasing by 10.2%, from 266 million in 2020 to 293 million in 2021.
The amount of money losses from scams surged by 15.7%, rising from $47.8 billion in 2020 to $55.3 billion in 2021, largely driven by a rise in investment scams.
In fact, from our neighbouring shore, Australia, 96% of Australians have been exposed to a scam in the last 5 years with half of these contacted weekly or daily by scammers.
Mr Speaker Sir,
We have seen a significant rise in online scams and fraud, with many Fijians falling victim to these deceitful tactics. For instance, the Consumer Council of Fiji has received more than 1,700 complaints in relation to all scams since 2019, worth over $3 million dollars.
We have witnessed various types of scams and fraud, including online scams that employ phishing emails and text messages (with active links), as well as impersonation of business owners, Chief Executive Officers and Industry Captains to facilitate fund transfers via mobile wallets.
Investment scams have also been on the rise, where fraudsters sell inaccurate or non-existent products or ideas to desperate investors looking to get rich quickly.
ANTI - SCAM TASKFORCE
Mr Speaker Sir,
The eBay shop online recruitment scam, one of the largest in Fiji's history, has had a devastating impact on our people and brought national attention to this growing threat. The perpetrators preyed on the trust and hope of individuals, leaving them not only financially crippled but also deeply disillusioned.
The Consumer Council of Fiji and Fiji Police Force had reported that around $3 million was lost to eBay scams; however, the true impact is likely much more severe, potentially reaching ten times the reported figure, as estimated by RBF.
This staggering estimate reflects not only the financial losses but also the immense human toll on victims, many of whom have refrained from reporting their losses due to fear or shame. Given the number of unreported cases and the vulnerability of many victims, the actual scale of the eBay scam's impact on Fiji could be far greater than the official figures suggest.
Mr Speaker Sir,
This scam had a national impact where the victims transcended all segments of our society - including civil servants, teachers and professionals.
Thus, there is an urgent need for greater public awareness, coordinated response, and strengthened enforcement mechanisms to protect citizens against evolving online threats, prompting the Government to take decisive action and establish the 'Anti-Scam Taskforce'.
This multi-agency initiative is aimed at tackling the growing problem of fraud through enhanced scam surveillance, strengthening institutional framework and targeted awareness campaigns involving various stakeholders.
The Taskforce also has long-term plans to focus on legislative enhancements, and educational programmes (including curriculum development to build IT knowledge) to empower vulnerable communities and create a safer online environment for all Fijians through vigilance and collaboration.
Mr Speaker Sir,
The Taskforce, chaired by me, unites representatives from diverse Government agencies and private sectors, including:
1. Consumer Council of Fiji;
2. Fijian Commerce and Consumer Commission;
3. Online Safety Commission;
4. Fiji Police Force;
5. Ministry of Local Government;
6. Reserve Bank of Fiji; and
7. Office of the Solicitor - General.
To effectively tackle the increasing prevalence of scams in Fiji, a comprehensive approach is essential. That is why, telecommunication providers such as Vodafone Fiji and Digicel Fiji are part of the Taskforce to address the issue of scams more effectively across the nation.
NATIONAL SCAM AWARENESS WEEK
Mr Speaker Sir,
The most significant initiative spearheaded by the Anti-Scam Taskforce recently is the 'National Scams Awareness Week'. This week-long campaign is a strategic response to the growing threat of scams, designed to educate, engage and empower the general public, particularly our youths.
The centrepiece of the National Scams Awareness Week was the National Symposium held at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, with over 200 participants for the 3 days. This symposium brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Government officials, private sector leaders, representatives from international organisations, technical experts and civil society.
I would like to acknowledge and thank the United Nations Capital Development Fund, the Pacific Digital Economy Programme, and the Governments of Australia, New Zealand and the European Union for bringing National Scams Awareness Week to life.
In the span of three days, a series of insightful panel discussions and presentations provided an overview of the challenges related to scam prevention in Fiji.
On the first two days, the symposium featured a range of discussions aimed at understanding the evolving nature of scams and their impact across different sectors - kicking off with a panel discussion on the "Emerging Landscape of Scams in Fiji", where representatives from various bodies shared their experiences and insights into the most recent trends in fraudulent activities.
Mr Speaker Sir,
The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Council also shared the importance of protecting MSMEs from scams, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities faced by MSMEs.
The third day of the symposium was dedicated to engaging the youth, recognising their pivotal role in the digital age. The day featured a workshop tailored specifically for young people, which included an inter-tertiary debate between the University of the South Pacific, University of Fiji and the Fiji National University, as well as youth panels.
We focused on the role of youths in promoting digital literacy and safeguarding their personal information online, emphasising the importance of privacy and security in the digital landscape.
OTHER INITIATIVES
Mr Speaker Sir,
The initiative extends beyond National Scam Awareness Week, as the Taskforce actively promotes awareness through billboards placed at Vatuwaqa Primary School and Nakasi Roundabout.
Additionally, in partnership with Vodafone Fiji, SMS blasts have been sent out and will continue to be disseminated to further enhance public awareness.
The Consumer Council of Fiji has launched the National TikTok Competition. This initiative aims to engage our youth and encourage them to create and share impactful content that raises awareness about the importance of recognizing and avoiding scams.
Mr Speaker Sir,
In addition to these national initiatives, the Consumer Council of Fiji has taken the lead in conducting community visits and workshops throughout the country. These face-to-face interactions are crucial, particularly in areas where access to digital platforms may be limited.
By bringing the message directly to the people, we ensure that scam awareness is not just a topic of discussion but a lived reality. These workshops involve traders, schools, universities, and local community groups.
Mr Speaker Sir,
Community engagement is more than ever crucial in our fight against scams. By working with local leaders, community groups, and civil society, we can foster a culture of vigilance and mutual support.
Partnerships with the private sector, particularly in industries such as telecommunications and banking, are also critical. These partnerships can help us deploy resources more effectively and ensure that our efforts are coordinated and comprehensive.
While the Taskforce is creating nationwide awareness on the ongoing scams onshore, I am pleased to inform this August House that an important initiative to strengthen the legislative framework is underway, with the support of our donor agency.
This review will be benchmarked against international best practices, ensuring that laws are not only up-to-date but also effective in addressing the evolving nature of scams. The consultant intends to provide key recommendations for areas of change, helping us to align our legal framework with global standards and enhance our capacity to protect our citizens.
Mr Speaker Sir,
Furthermore, FCCC has joined the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) and the Oceanic Chapter of GASA to enhance its ability to tackle scams more effectively. It is aimed to raise awareness, provide practical tools, facilitate knowledge sharing, and conduct research and educational events.
Through this partnership, the FCCC has gained access to critical tools such as the ScamAdviser platform, which enables better detection and filtering of potentially harmful online scams. Moreover, the wealth of shared knowledge and expertise within GASA will be instrumental in strengthening our defenses against emerging threats.
In line with these efforts, the FCCC is currently conducting a State of Scams survey in collaboration with GASA. This Survey aims to gather valuable insights into the types of scams affecting Fijians and identify strategies for more targeted and effective interventions moving forward.
NATIONAL EFFORTS IN DIGITAL SPACE
Mr Speaker Sir,
In an increasingly digital world, technological advancements and robust cybersecurity measures are essential. We must continue to invest in tools and technologies that will protect our citizens from online threats. This includes not only the security of our digital infrastructure and the development of secure systems but also the promotion of basic cyber hygiene practices among our citizens.
The Government is actively investing in the safety and security of our citizens and businesses in the digital space. One of our major initiatives is developing the National Cybersecurity Strategy. This important strategy will strengthen our cyber security posture, boost resilience, and improve our ability to respond to the ever evolving cyber threats.
Mr Speaker Sir,
Concurrently, Fiji has also deposited its instruments of accession of the Budapest Convention. This landmark Convention is the only binding legal framework that will allow prompt international cooperation to criminalise and prosecute cybercrimes. Through this Convention, Fiji also has access to the 24/7 Network Point of Contacts which will ensure that we get swift international cooperation during cybercrime investigations.
On several occasions you have raised in this August House that Fiji has now ratified the Budapest Convention. Sir, this landmark Convention allows us to cooperate internationally to combat transnational crimes that involve digital information. It also allows us to build capacity in agencies like the Cyber Crimes Unit, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Attorney General's Chambers.
CONCLUSION
Mr Speaker Sir,
We must acknowledge that the issue of scams is not unique to Fiji. In fact, many of the tactics used by scammers in Fiji are imported from or inspired by similar fraudulent schemes that have been successfully executed in other countries.
Countries like the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom, despite their advanced technological infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, continue to grapple with the challenge of preventing and mitigating scams. These nations have seen a rise in various forms of online fraud, from phishing and identity theft to complex investment scams that have cost individuals and businesses billions of dollars.
Mr Speaker Sir,
Through various means and advocacy on scams and fraud protection, I have always said and would like to reiterate in this August House - if the offer seems too good to be true, it's likely a scam. Proceed with extreme caution.
Together, let us build a brighter future for the general public where trusts, integrity and security are upheld.
Vinaka Vakalevu.