Human traffickers exploit social media in Fiji and Malawi

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) warns that traffickers are increasingly using social‑media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to recruit vulnerable people, including children, domestic workers and job‑seekers. In Fiji, IOM project coordinator Sera Raisulu says the gap between digital connectivity and digital literacy leaves families unable to recognise online risks. The agency is collaborating with the Fiji Police Force to raise awareness, improve reporting through the Fiji Anti‑Trafficking Intelligence Report System and promote parental digital education.

In Malawi, Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhito highlighted fake job ads, deceptive messages and AI‑generated scams as new lures for victims, especially women and children. Minister of Gender Mary Navicha urged parents to monitor online activity and announced soft‑loan programmes, skills training and counselling for at‑risk groups. IOM officer Alina Zalewski noted the growing use of artificial intelligence to fabricate false hopes for desperate job seekers, reinforcing the need for stronger community safeguards.