Protect Your Digital Activities Amid Surge in Online Scams

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As online fraud reaches unprecedented levels, Filipinos are reminded to stay vigilant and strengthen their digital security—a key message underscored by Safer Internet Day, an annual global movement advocating for a safer and more responsible online experience.

According to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), cybercrime complaints more than tripled in 2024, with 10,004 cases filed—a staggering rise from 3,317 in 2023.¹  These scams led to PHP198 million in total financial losses, highlighting the growing sophistication of fraud, particularly consumer fraud and online financial fraud, which together account for 67% of all reported cases. Fraudsters continue to exploit deceptive tactics such as fake online sales, impersonation scams, investment fraud, and phishing to steal sensitive information like passwords and one-time PINs (OTPs).

Recognizing the growing vulnerabilities of OTPs, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is pushing for stricter security regulations to strengthen the country’s financial cybersecurity framework. As part of this effort, the BSP has proposed regulatory changes aimed at enforcing Republic Act No. 12010, or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (Afasa), which was signed into law last year to combat financial cybercrimes. This includes requiring banks to continuously enhance their security infrastructure, implement stronger authentication measures, and adopt more advanced fraud detection systems to stay ahead of cybercriminals².

PSBank is reinforcing its commitment to security through key enhancements to its PSBank Mobile app. Clients now have the ability to lock access to their accounts on platforms they don’t usually use, ensuring that their PSBank accounts remain restricted to their preferred and regularly utilized channels. They can also lock or unlock their ATM cards through the app, providing an extra layer of protection against unauthorized transactions.

Beyond security, PSBank Mobile continues to simplify digital banking with a faster, more seamless account opening process, removing the waiting period for verification and allowing customers to open an account with just one valid ID and a selfie. The app also offers zero initial deposit requirements, real-time bill payments, RFID reloading for tolls, and lower InstaPay transfer fees—ensuring that users can enjoy safe and hassle-free banking.

While security systems evolve, vigilance remains the most powerful defense against online fraud. To minimize risks, users are encouraged to follow these key digital safety practices:

1. Verify sender identities – Always double-check emails, messages, or calls claiming to be from banks or government agencies. Scammers often impersonate trusted institutions.

2. Avoid clicking on suspicious links – Phishing scams rely on fake websites that mimic legitimate platforms to steal login credentials. Always access bank websites and apps directly.

3. Use strong, unique passwords – Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.

4. Never share banking credentials – Banks will never ask for your PIN, OTP, or account details via email, text, or call. If someone requests this information, it's likely a scam.

5. Monitor account activity regularly – Frequently check your bank statements and transaction history for any unauthorized activity. Report suspicious transactions immediately.

6. Report scams promptly – If you fall victim to fraud, contact your bank and report the incident to the government’s 1326 cybercrime hotline, available 24/7 to assist victims.

As cybercriminals continue to innovate, fortifying your digital security is no longer just an option—it’s a necessity. This Safer Internet Day serves as a strong reminder that while financial institutions enhance their digital defenses, users must also remain proactive and vigilant. Fraudsters may adapt, but with the right security measures and a well-informed digital banking community, Filipinos can continue transacting online with confidence.

For more information on safe digital banking practices and the latest news on the PSBank Mobile App, visit www.psbank.com.ph or follow PSBank on Facebook and Instagram.

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1  Philippine News Agency. (2025, January 31). Scam complaints triple in 2024 – CICC. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1243101

2  Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. (2025, January 22). Amendments to Regulations on Information Technology Risk Management to Implement Section 6 of the AntiFinancial Account Scamming Act (AFASA). https://www.bsp.gov.ph/Regulations/Issuances%20of%20Policy%20Exposure%20Drafts/Exposure-Draft_Amendments-to- Regulations-on-IT-Risk-Management-to-Implement-Section-6-of-the-Anti-Financial-Account-Scamming-Act.pdf

PNP, with aid from GCash, uncovers online exploitation and trafficking on social media, messaging apps

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The Philippine National Police, with the aid of GCash, has uncovered the proliferation of online children and women trafficking during recent arrests of cybercriminals conducted by the law enforcement body.

A human trafficking suspect allegedly exploited victims on a popular social media platform. Posing as clients under various aliases, he purchased pornographic material from victims and then used it to coerce them into further sexual exploitation. The victims were subsequently trafficked to the Middle East for forced labor and prostitution, reportedly using various social media aliases including Lester James Ang, LJ Garcia, Harley Garcia, Mark Harley Garcia, Mark Harley Dave Garcia, and Mark Harly Dave Garciano. He was eventually traced and arrested by an operation led by the PNP Anti-cybercrime group.

Two more separate cases of online child sexual exploitation have been reported by PNP-ACG involving a suspect named Mary June Netuliano Espiritu, who was put into custody for purportedly selling explicit videos of her daughter on social media. In a similar case, Leonisa Postetad Ligo is facing charges for allegedly prostituting two minor victims through a popular messaging app.

As the largest digital ecosystem, GCash recognizes its role in keeping the public and cyberspace secure— while safeguarding the well-being of women and children.

“To create a financially inclusive cashless ecosystem, we must ensure that the digital landscape is safe for users and their children by supporting law enforcement agencies in their efforts against cybercrimes. Our commitment extends to protecting the community from all threats, especially involving women and children,” said GCash vice president and head of corporate communications Gilda Maquilan.

GCash urges the public to report any incidents of scams, fraud, or cybercrime to the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) by calling (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116, or by emailing acg@pnp.gov.ph. Users can also report cybercrimes through the official GCash Help Center at https://help.gcash.com by messaging Gigi on the website and typing 'I want to report a scam.' Alternatively, they may contact the GCash hotline by dialing 2882.

For a safer digital experience, GCash reminds its users to remain vigilant, never share their MPIN or OTP, and avoid clicking on suspicious links that could lead to phishing or fraud. GCash will never ask for personal information through private messages.