Don’t Be Fooled! New Alert to Expose Fake Astrology Money Traps

March 28, 2025

Fraudsters posing as astrologers and divine healers continue to exploit consumers for financial
gain across Fiji. Despite previous warnings, the Consumer Council of Fiji is aware of
individuals who operate businesses under the false pretense of possessing supernatural abilities,
promising to resolve financial, relationship, and personal problems while preying on the
vulnerabilities of others. However, as expected, these predatory fraudsters not only fail to
deliver on their promises but often leave their victims in an even worse situation—both
financially and emotionally.

In a recent tip-off received by the Council, an astrologer took advantage of a family’s fears and
superstitions, coercing them into paying over $10,000. By exploiting their insecurities, he
created doubt and division within the family, ultimately preventing a marriage from taking
place. What should have been a joyous occasion, filled with hope and new beginnings, was
instead overshadowed by deception, leaving the family to face a cloud of uncertainty and
emotional turmoil.

“Scammers who take advantage of cultural and personal beliefs to manipulate families are a
serious concern. Not only do these actions cause financial loss, but they also create emotional
turmoil and destroy relationships. It is disturbing to see that such deceitful practices continue
to exist, exploiting people’s fears and insecurities. Consumers must not fall into this trap and
should make decisions based on logic and verified facts, not superstition,” stated Consumer
Council of Fiji Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Seema Shandil.

The Council conducted an investigation under an alias, making a mystery call to the same
astrologer while providing a fake name and date of birth when seeking assistance. Despite these
fabricated details, the astrologer proceeded to make alarming predictions, warning of
impending calamities such as, “There is misfortune in your destiny,” and “You are about to
suffer.” His modus operandi became clear—he preys on fear, convincing clients that only his
exclusive and costly “special treatment” can shield them from disaster. Shockingly, he quoted
a fee of $12,000 for his supposed services, completely failing to realize that the information
provided was false.

“This is absolutely hilarious,” remarked Ms. Shandil. “If this so-called astrologer was truly
capable of foreseeing events, how did he fail to recognize that the details given were fake?
Consumers should stay alert and not be easily deceived—these are scammers, clear and
simple.”

The Council is also issuing a stern warning to these fraudsters. The Council will not only
expose such fraudulent services but will also refer them to the Fiji Police Force for further
investigation and potential prosecution. “Consumers should think twice before trusting these
fraudsters and handing over their hard-earned money. The only thing these scammers are good
at is exploiting vulnerability and running off with cash.

Consumers who have encountered or fallen victim to such scams are encouraged to report these
incidents to the Council by calling the Toll-free helpline 155 or emailing
complaints@consumersfiji.org.