The Anti-Cybercrime Group of the Philippine National Police (PNP-ACG) has recorded a 42.9 percent reduction in cybercrime and attributed it to the implementation of the SIM Registration Act.
PNP-ACG director Brig. Gen. Sidney Hernia said the reduction in cybercrime cases were recorded since August 2023, or a few days after the massive deactivation of unregistered SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards was implemented.
Based on the ACG data, the unit recorded a total of 6,385 cases from August to December 2023 compared to a total of 14,893 cases from January to July of the same year.
“This represents a direct outcome of the deactivation process,” said Hernia.
The deactivation of unregistered SIM cards was based on the enactment into a law of Republic Act 11934 which was openly supported by the PNP following the use of cellphone-detonated bombs.
The problem later aggravated by the increase of scams and other cellphone and online criminal activities where police investigators would always end up failing to solve them due to difficulty in tracing the owners of cellphones used in cybercrime related activities.
RA 11934 mandates the registration of both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards for all mobile device users, underscoring the importance of regulatory measures in securing and managing telecommunications in the Philippines.
Hernia, however, said that there is still a need to come up with a comprehensive study in integrating technology, legal frameworks, education and collaboration with other agencies to maximize the operation and preventive measures against cybercrimes.
“By implementing these measures and fostering strong partnerships, we can strengthen our online environment, significantly reducing the prevalence and impact of cybercrime,” said Hernia.
PNP chief gen. Benjamin Acorda earlier said that the police organization will focus on further improving the capabilities of the ACG this year.