An emerging online money-making platform known as “F-Mobile (Friendship) Money” is gaining popularity among Solomon Islanders, with many users claiming to earn income through online activities and referrals.
The scheme has attracted hundreds of new users across the country, particularly firstly in Honiara, Gizo and quickly spreads to other parts in the provinces as people search for alternative ways to generate income in a challenging economic environment.
The mobile-based platform allows users to earn money by performing tasks such as watching and promoting its advertisements and recruiting new members.
Users are reportedly paid in US dollars, which are automatically converted into Solomon dollars and deposited into their mobile wallets.
“I joined the F-Mobile Money program in June and have already received two up to three payments,” one user from Gizo, who wished to remain anonymous told Solomon Star in an interview.
“It is really a game changer. It’s helping me cover small expenses like phone top-ups and daily needs.”
Another member said it is so surprising that soon as a register to F- Mobile and recruite two other friends i started to receive money transfer directly to my account which I registered on.
“The scheme operates through a referral system, where new users pay an initial registration fee of USD $21 (approximately SBD $280). Members then earn commissions by recruiting others into the platform, creating what some describe as a growing “money tree.”
According to the company, early participants have already earned thousands of Solomon dollars, with one woman claiming to have made over SBD $100,000 within a month.
The company is headed by Ron Capua, a Filipino entrepreneur based in Beverly Hills, California. He is also the founder and CEO of World Class Wireless Network, LLC, and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing and Management.
Much of the platform’s popularity is driven by testimonials shared on social media, including screenshots of earnings that encourage others to join.
The CEO also does live zoom connecting its members globally which saw the boss encouraging members to recruit more people to grow and invest more money for themselves.
However, despite its growing traction, the F-Mobile Money scheme has raised concerns among digital finance experts and observers.
A senior ICT officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, urged the public to be cautious when participating in online income platforms, especially those that rely heavily on referral systems.
“Not all digital schemes are sustainable or transparent. People should take time to understand how these platforms operate before committing time or money,” the officer warned.
Currently, there is no regulatory framework in Solomon Islands to govern digital income schemes, leaving users vulnerable to potential scams and financial losses.
However, it is evident that many of the FMobile users and members currently received cash in hand through transactions online.
Very few financial advisors are encouraging users to verify the legitimacy of such platforms and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
One of the most significant and notorious scams in Solomon Islands’ recent history was the so-called “One Link” scheme that was introduced in 2019.
Another major case, recorded earlier, was the high-profile Family Charity Fund scam. Both schemes saw millions of dollars exchanged, with thousands of Solomon Islanders losing their hard-earned savings.
As the trend continues to grow, the public is reminded to stay informed, act responsibly, and avoid decisions driven solely by the promise of quick financial gain.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
