With a surge in digital transactions and parcel shipments over the Christmas season, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up its campaign against online shopping frauds and fraudulent delivery schemes.
Acting PNP commander Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement that the action was taken in response to a discernible increase in cases of online fraud in recent weeks.
“Malaki po ang threat level ngayon. Every Christmas season tumataas talaga ang fraud cases pero this year mas aggressive ang mga scammers, lalo na online,” he emphasized.
“The PNP is on alert to protect our communities from these digital and delivery-related crimes.”
‘SCAM HOTSPOTS’
Nartatez gave the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) instructions to monitor known scam hotspots, phony websites, and dubious online dealers more closely in order to combat the growth in scams.
Additionally, the ACG has set up specialist “holiday cyber patrols” to monitor phishing attempts, fraudulent ads, and new dangers that are circulating on e-commerce and social media platforms.
“Based on our monitoring, ang pinakakaraniwan ngayon ay online shopping scams, fake delivery parcels, phishing links, at mga impersonation schemes,” he said.
The PNP is giving entrapment operations against syndicates responsible for parcel delivery scams, phishing networks, phony online vendors, and SIM/OTP harvesting activities top priority as part of the intensified effort.
TRANSNATIONAL?
Cyber detectives are also mapping potential connections between overseas crime rings and local fraud groups, according to Nartatez.
Additionally, the PNP is improving cooperation with significant courier services, online marketplaces, and payment service providers.
For prompt verification, the public is encouraged to report suspicious packages or online accounts using the Unified 911 System.
“Kung may parcel na dumating na hindi niyo naman in-order, red flag na agad ’yan. And if someone asks for your OTP or personal details, never click, never share. Legit companies will never ask for your passwords,” he warned.
“Huwag magpadalos-dalos sa sobrang gandang deals. And kung may duda, iwas muna.”
Nartatez emphasized that awareness is still a vital defense and urged communities to assist in disseminating correct information and reporting fraud efforts as soon as possible.
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