The Consumer Council of Fiji has issued an urgent public warning about a sophisticated online scam using the name, image, and videos of its Board Chair, Ms. Mereseini Baleilevuka, to promote fake investment schemes.
The fraudulent “get-rich-quick” schemes promise massive returns, but are designed to trick consumers into sending money to criminals.
Fraudsters have created fake social media posts and profiles that falsely endorse these schemes, exploiting the trust and credibility of Ms. Baleilevuka. The Council says her image is being used without her permission to create a false sense of legitimacy.
Ms. Baleilevuka, who has no connection to these schemes, was the first to alert the Council to the scam. She is actively fighting back by using her own social media accounts to post live videos and direct warnings to the public.
“Do not be fooled by these criminals using my name and face,” Ms. Baleilevuka urged in a statement.
“I would never endorse such a scheme. Please be vigilant, protect your hard-earned money, and report these posts immediately”.
Council CEO Ms. Seema Shandil described the fraud as “an alarming new low”.
“It is a ruthless attempt to steal from ordinary Fijians by exploiting a trusted name,” Ms. Shandil stated.
“Remember if an online offer promising fast money seems too good to be true, it absolutely is”.
All consumers are urged by the Council to never send money or share personal or banking details based on an online ad or post.
Consumers should be extremely skeptical of any online investment guaranteeing high returns with little effort.
The public is advised to immediately report any suspicious posts or profiles.