$100-for-$1k scam hits social media

Nadi-based blogger and social media influencer Maca Tabuya is urging Fijians to remain vigilant online after scammers created fake accounts using her identity to promote fraudulent money-doubling schemes.

Ms Tabuya, who has more than 54,000 followers on Facebook where she shares budgeting tips, savings advice and frugal-living content, said over 20 fake profiles were recently created with her name and photos.

She said the scammers targeted unsuspecting followers by promising unrealistic returns through fake money-policy schemes.

“One person called and said they had sent money to someone using my name, with the promise that if they sent $100, they would get $1000 in 24 hours,” Ms Tabuya said.

A similar incident happened about three years ago, when someone contacted her claiming they had transferred money to a number falsely linked to her. Upon checking, Ms Tabuya found the number did not belong to her, and the scammer had even impersonated her cousin. The name attached to the M-PAiSA account also did not match the identity being used.

She reported the matter to police at the time but was told only the victims themselves could lodge complaints.

Since then, Ms Tabuya has been posting online safety reminders every two weeks to raise awareness and prevent others from being scammed.

“I think sometimes people forget that social media is open to anybody and everybody — and anyone can be a victim. Scammers are always at work,” she said.

“Always verify your sources when someone tells you something online because anybody can be lured into these schemes.”

Ms Tabuya urged the public to double-check online requests for money, report fake accounts to police, and ask for help if unsure.

She stressed that people should not trust strangers too quickly on social media, and should always research before transferring funds, noting that money lost to scammers is rarely recovered.

“If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Verify your sources, be cautious on social media, and look after yourself too,” she said.

FACT CHECK: CAN $100 TURN INTO $1,000 IN 24 HOURS?

Claim: Social media posts promising that sending $100 will return $1,000 within 24 hours.

Verdict: False. There is no legitimate scheme that multiplies your money tenfold overnight. These offers are scams designed to steal your money.

What happened:

Scammers created more than 20 fake Facebook accounts posing as blogger Maca Tabuya, using her photos and name to lure victims and promote quick-return schemes. Some even used fake M-PAiSA numbers.

The warning:

Scams are now an ongoing issue, and fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated.

Stay safe:

• Verify your sources.

• Be cautious when using social media.
• Seek help if something feels off.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.