International Telephone Call Scam Alert: Digicel Nauru Warns Customers
The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) in Nauru has issued a warning to the public about an international telephone call scam, urging customers to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
The Scam
According to the FIU, three members of the public have reported receiving unsolicited calls from unknown numbers, demanding money transfers and threatening to take legal action if not complied with. After conducting checks on its Suspicious Transaction Reporting (STR) database, the FIU found no matches for the beneficiaries.
Combating the Scam
To combat this scam, the FIU has taken a proactive approach by advising the public to immediately contact them, the Cybercrime Unit, the Nauru Police Force, Digicel Nauru, or the Bendigo Bank Agency if they receive similar calls. The alert notice was issued through various channels, including the Government Information Office, Government Facebook page, text blasts through the Digicel platform, and the FIU website.
FIU’s Strategic Analysis
The FIU has been actively monitoring potential scams and taking proactive measures to combat financial crimes. In its strategic analysis, the FIU highlighted the need for vigilance during election periods, as reported cases of bribery, corruption, collusion, and other financial crimes often increase.
In a separate case, the FIU collaborated with the Nauruan Supervisory Authorities and law enforcement authorities to identify specific risks and vulnerabilities in the country’s anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism framework.
Public Private Partnership
The FIU has introduced a National Strategy for Anti-Money Laundering and Combatting the Financing of Terrorism 2022-2025, which sets out specific goals and objectives. The strategy also establishes three committees, including:
- AML Governance Committee: responsible for sharing information and identifying risks
- AML Officials Committee: responsible for implementing policies and procedures
- Private Partners Committee: responsible for finding mitigating strategies
Case Study: FIU Dissemination to Nauru Police Force
The FIU has also disseminated case findings to the Nauru Police Force related to alleged forgery at the Passport office. The case involved an unemployed Nauruan national who attempted to avoid payment for the renewal of two passports.
Nauru’s Approach to Combatting Crimes
The Nauru FIU works closely with all stakeholders through its committees and strategic analysis findings are shared with all parties to ensure everyone is aware of current crime trends and patterns. The approach involves a collaborative effort to identify risks, vulnerabilities, and finding appropriate solutions.
Customer Alert
Customers are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the FIU or Digicel Nauru.