Overview:
A new INTERPOL report warns that cybercrime is becoming an increasingly serious threat across Fiji and the Pacific, as cybercriminals exploit weaknesses in cybersecurity systems and limited technical resources. The assessment highlights rising risks from online scams, ransomware, phishing attacks and AI-generated deepfakes, underscoring the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation and cyber resilience.
SUVA, 19 JUNE 2026 (FIJI TIMES) —Fiji and other Pacific Island nations are increasingly vulnerable to cybercrime as criminals exploit weaknesses in cybersecurity systems, according to the newly released INTERPOL Asia and South Pacific Cyber Threat Assessment Report 2025/2026.
The report highlights that while digital connectivity has brought major economic and social benefits to the Pacific, many small island developing states continue to face challenges in cybersecurity preparedness, technical expertise and resources, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals.
INTERPOL says cybercrime across the Asia-Pacific region has grown rapidly, with online scams, phishing attacks, ransomware, banking trojans and AI-generated deepfake scams emerging as some of the most significant threats. More than half of member countries surveyed reported that cybercrime now accounts for over 30 percent of all crimes recorded nationally.
The report specifically identifies Fiji as one of the countries targeted by the RedLine infostealer malware, a malicious programme designed to steal login credentials, banking information, cryptocurrency wallet data and other sensitive personal information. Fiji was listed alongside Cambodia, Kiribati, Laos, Nepal, the Philippines, Timor-Leste and Vietnam as countries affected by the malware.
INTERPOL found that online scams remain the most widespread and financially damaging form of cybercrime in the region, with phishing and social engineering attacks exploiting human trust rather than technical vulnerabilities. The organisation warns that criminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence to create convincing fake messages, voices and videos to deceive victims.
The report also notes that many Pacific countries face operational challenges in responding to cybercrime, including limited access to specialised forensic tools, cybercrime training and technical expertise. INTERPOL says stronger regional cooperation, intelligence sharing and public awareness campaigns will be critical to improving cyber resilience across the Pacific.
According to the report, cybercrime poses increasing risks not only to individuals and businesses but also to national economies and public trust in digital services throughout the region…..PACNEWS
