Globe Telecom Inc. blocked 36.7 million bank-related spam and scam messages from January to August this year through collaboration and data-sharing with partner banks, the telco announced Thursday, Sept. 8.

While Globe’s campaign against online fraud largely involves blocking of scam and spam messages, it has also focused on leading industry collaborations to create a more robust system of detecting, reporting and acting on cybersecurity threats.

Globe recently partnered with the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) to create a framework for intelligence and data-sharing.

The telco and BAP are working together to counter the increasing volume and complexity of financial crimes, identity theft, phishing, spam SMS, scams, and fraud.

Earlier this year, Globe signed agreements with major banks to provide mutual support on investigations involving online banking fraud, the first alliance of its kind in the counyry.

Globe and partner banks share key information about mobile numbers potentially used by fraudsters to help investigate online banking fraud.

“Rapid detection and action against illicit activity on Globe’s network have been made possible by the groundbreaking information exchange frameworks with banks," according to Anton Bonifacio, Globe Chief Information Security Officer.

"These enhance the overall efficiency of fraud investigation and prevention,” he noted.

The nature of cybercrime and online fraud requires a collaborative and streamlined process that reduces limitations while remaining compliant with the Data Privacy Act of the Philippines, Bonifacio stressed.

“We have been at the forefront of these technology and information-sharing partnerships, knowing how cybercrime severely impacts consumers and key stakeholders in all industries, especially with increased digital adoption,” Bonifacio explained.

Aside from blocking millions of scam and spam messages, Globe has also deactivated 14,058 scam-linked mobile numbers and blacklisted 8,973 more from January to July this year.

It has continued to ramp up its cybersecurity efforts by strengthening its capabilities to prevent attacks and threats to its infrastructure and protect its customers.

These include a security operations center that works 24/7 to detect and defend against breaches, as well as a 100-strong team dedicated to cybersecurity efforts.

Through its #MakeITsafePH campaign, Globe also provides its customers with updates and information about cybersecurity and the responsible use of the Internet.