CICC warns about text scam that creeps into legit message threads

CICC warns vs text scam that sneaks into legit message threads

/ 09:35 PM November 06, 2024
This represents the Maya text scam.
Photo Credit: CICC

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) warned the public of an SMS or text scam that could sneak into reputable message threads. 

The scam inserts fraudulent messages within reputable message threads, making it harder for recipients to distinguish between real and fake texts

READ: Avoid this mobile rewards scam

Article continues after this advertisement

Often, the text contains a link to a fake website that takes a recipient’s details, like One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and personal data. 

FEATURED STORIES

CICC Executive Director Alexander K. Ramos said that his office has been receiving related complaints from Maya and GCash users.

“We are appealing to the public to be more vigilant and never click links sent through text messages. We should always be suspicious when we receive such links through text messages,” Ramos stated.

Article continues after this advertisement

GCash has been sending advisories on various platforms to protect customers from this text scam.

Article continues after this advertisement

“GCash will never send links via SMS, email, and messaging apps,” the e-wallet firm declared on its FB page.

Article continues after this advertisement

Also, Smart and Maya have been advising customers: “Never open links sent by text, even those from ‘Maya.’ Scammers are now using illegal cell towers to send texts that appear to be from trusted brands.” 

Ramos reminded the public that fighting cybercrime begins with every individual. “The government cannot do it alone,” he said. “We need the support of everyone in the community.”

Article continues after this advertisement

People may report cybercrime incidents to the Inter-Agency Response Center (IARC) Hotline 1326.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

TOPICS: technology, Text, text scam
TAGS: technology, Text, text scam

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2024 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.