The BVI Cancer Society has issued a warning to residents about a concerning scam circulating on WhatsApp, where fraudsters are misusing the charity’s name to deceive members of the community.

“We have received multiple reports from community members who were contacted by individuals falsely claiming to represent our organisation,” the society said in a statement.

According to the reports, the scammers have been inviting individuals to Zoom calls and making false claims related to the charity’s Bingo fundraising events. “This misuse of our name is deeply concerning, and we are committed to ensuring the public is informed and protected,” the statement continued.

The BVI Cancer Society clarified that it does not use WhatsApp to send invitations to Zoom meetings or to promote events. Official information about its activities, including fundraising events, is shared exclusively through verified channels such as its website, Facebook page, and trusted community partners. The organisation also stressed that it never requests personal information or financial contributions through WhatsApp.

The society urged the public to remain cautious. Anyone receiving suspicious messages claiming to be from the BVI Cancer Society is advised to avoid clicking on links or sharing personal information. Instead, they should contact the society directly to verify the legitimacy of the message. Reports of such scams should be made to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force by dialling 311 and providing details of the suspicious contact.

“We are deeply troubled that scammers are exploiting our name and reputation in this way,” the society said. “Our focus remains on supporting the community through cancer awareness, prevention, and care, and we ask for your assistance in stopping this fraudulent activity.”

For further concerns or information, members of the public can reach the BVI Cancer Society at 1284-499-0022 or via email at bvicancersociety@gmail.com.

As the festive season brings increased consumer activity, the British Virgin Islands Bank Association (BVIBA) has issued a stern reminder to merchants across the territory regarding compliance with card transaction policies.

The association warns that imposing minimum spending requirements or charging additional fees for card payments is not only against their merchant agreements but also violates regulations established by major payment networks, VISA and Mastercard.

The advisory, issued on Wednesday, December 18, warns that merchants engaging in these practices are in breach of their contractual obligations with their respective financial institutions. “We request that all merchants immediately cease these practices to ensure compliance,” the statement read.

The BVIBA comprises several prominent financial institutions, including Bank of Asia (BVI) Limited, CIBC Caribbean, FirstBank PR, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) Limited, and VP Bank (BVI) Limited.

For inquiries or guidance on compliance, the BVIBA advises merchants to contact their respective banks promptly.

Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.

The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.

“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”

The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.

Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.

For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.