Vodafone warns M-PAiSA users over fake $300 giveaway scam

Vodafone Fiji has issued an urgent warning to M-PAiSA users after a fake $300 giveaway scam began circulating widely on social media.

General Manager for Digital and Marketing Shalendra Prasad said the company was alerted after users reported messages claiming M-PAiSA was marking an anniversary with a cash giveaway.

Mr Prasad said the claim was false and warned that the links contained in the messages led to fraudulent websites designed to steal personal information, including PINs and one-time passwords.

He said M-PAiSA was not celebrating any anniversary and no such promotion existed.

The scam has been spreading on platforms including Facebook, Messenger and Viber, with users being prompted to click links and enter sensitive details to claim the fake prize.

Vodafone Fiji said all official M-PAiSA announcements are issued only through verified company channels and urged users to ignore and delete suspicious messages.

Users have been advised not to click on links or share personal information and to report any such messages to Vodafone immediately.

Vodafone Fiji also encouraged customers to alert friends and family, particularly those unfamiliar with mobile money services, to prevent further victims.

The company said social media scams were becoming increasingly common and reminded users that staying alert and verifying information through official channels remained the best defence against fraud.