OUR lives are changing as digital technologies continue to influence our way of life, says Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu.
He told those present at the World Safer Internet Day in Nadi that government’s vision for Fiji’s digital future has been laid out.
“Just as the internet enhances connectivity, it can also enhance division,”Mr Tudravu said. “And we are seeing this happening on social media, aided by the misuse of artificial intelligence.
“I end by bringing us back to this year’s theme of ‘Smart Tech, Safe Choices — Exploring the Safe and Responsible Use of AI or artificial intelligence’.
“With everything in life, there are pros and cons. The latter should not be too problematic if we work together, by enhancing digital awareness, not just today, or annually, but with every opportunity we get.
“As I stated earlier, artificial intelligence has been touted as the fastest-spreading technology in human history. So, we cannot afford to play a catch-up game.”
Mr Tudravu stressed the use of artificial intelligence was here to stay.
“We cannot change that. What we can change is the level of awareness amongst our communities, so they are able to make safe choices.
“I am optimistic that we will achieve this if we work together, united with the same resolve of ensuring the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence.
“The Fiji Police Force is always eager to explore more ways to collaborate on this issue, as it is imperative that we continue to have this conversation well after today’s events.”
Tudravu flags online abuse
SOCIAL media has been rather toxic recently.
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu made the remark while speaking at the World Safer Internet Day organised by the Online Safety Commission in Nadi on Tuesday.
“I am not speaking for policing in particular, but in general, as keyboard warriors, hide behind fake profiles,” Mr Tudravu said.
“And as an ‘Anonymous member or Anonymous participant’, inciting hatred and dissent amongst users.”
Mr Tudravu said the introduction of AI made this even more challenging.
“In fact, artificial intelligence has been touted as the fastestspreading technology in human history.
“This unprecedented growth will lead to a higher degree of expectation of stakeholders to provide protection, either through enhanced legal protection or digital literacy skills.
“The popular tag line for the internet has always been ‘connectivity’, bringing us closer together.
“Service providers are also continuously looking at ways to make our lives easier, with services now accessible online.
“However, the increased dependence on technology has also provided the ideal platform for online predators, who take advantage of vulnerable online users.”
Mr Tudravu added computer-related offences have shown a significant upward trend, with offences under fraudulent conduct emerging as the most prominent cyber-crime category.
“Nearly 60 per cent of cybercrimes involve intimate image abuse and unauthorised access, through hacking, or accessing accounts (Viber, Facebook) without permission being the second most common method.”
Police push cyber unity
POLICE Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu on Tuesday told those present at the World Safer Internet Day in Nadi he has tagged 2026 as the year of “uniformity”.
“This applies to our internal and external stakeholders in policing,” he said.
“Issues confronting our nation today need to be tackled holistically. Police cannot address these issues alone.
“We need to consolidate our responses, work together, and look at avenues for promoting digital awareness, for a more resilient online community.
“Ever so now, it must start at a young age. I say this because our children are more tech-savvy as they have access to technology from a young age, as unfortunately mobile phones have become a popular babysitting tool.”
Mr Tudravu urged stakeholders to work together and share best practices and lessons learned.
“So, that we can establish mechanisms that protect online users.
“Fiji’s first National Digital Strategy 2025-2030, has been heralded a pivotal milestone in our journey towards a more progressive, inclusive, and resilient Fiji, empowered by secure and strategic nation-wide digital transformation.
“As Government is determined to harness digital technologies for the betterment of all Fijians, the onus is also on us, as law enforcement stakeholders to be proactive, by sharing information to enhance cyber resilience for our people.
“We know the threats, and we cannot afford to work in silos as it will be detrimental to our people, society and economy.”
He said as more people were connected, the focus should be on enhancing cybersecurity measures.
“The success of any initiative focused on safety and security is strong collaboration.
“It requires a united effort to ensure that progress is sustainable.”
Mr Tudravu also said that online crimes were multifaceted.
“The digital era has impacted the policing landscape, and majority of our investigations is dependent on digital forensics, to link the digital footprints of those involved in crimes.”
