Global crime syndicate behind scam text surge, says NPC

The National Privacy Commission‘s (NPC) initial investigations revealed that the scam texts is run by a global crime syndicate and has summoned the data protection officers of Globe, Smart, DITO, Lazada, Shopee, and several banks to report on their spam prevention measures to combat the said scam.

According to Privacy Commissioner Raymund E. Liboro, they have summoned these companies to detail their current and future measures to combat smishing. Liboro said that based on NPC’s initial investigations, the recent spam texts are run by a global crime syndicate, and not by a group that has gained unauthorized access to contact tracing forms, which was one of the first suspicions.

“If our initial findings prove true, that personal data is being exploited by criminals abroad, then this also becomes a matter of national security, which should compel government, the private sector and advocate groups to work hand in hand and take more urgent and concrete action to safeguard,” said Liboro.

Liboro reminded data subjects anew to remain vigilant and not open suspicious links. He also said to always scrutinize the message they receive and not easily believe its lofty promises of easy, passive income opportunities and high-paying jobs.

Liboro lastly assured that the NPC will continue to monitor the situation and encouraged victims to immediately file a report against the malicious senders, especially if they think their personal data has been compromised.

“If from an unknown number, and with an offer that is too good to be true, it is most probably not true and is a scam,” Liboro added.

Source: NPC