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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Trade & Industry devider Revamped anti-scam app seen to address evolving scam threat

Revamped anti-scam app seen to address evolving scam threat

Published Sep 19, 2025 06:51 am
Taiwan-based TrustTech company Gogolook has launched a revamped version of its scam prevention app, Whoscall, introducing upgraded features to address the escalating threat of scams that “blur the line between the truth and falsehood.”
In a statement, Gogolook said the updated Whoscall combines advanced artificial intelligence (AI) scam protection with a “growth-driven anti-scam community,” allowing Filipinos to report scams while earning rewards in the process.
Citing the 2025 Asia Scam Report, the company noted that 72 percent of Filipinos claim to have encountered scam, averaging once every two days.
The report showed that 52 percent felt psychological stress and 40 percent said the scam had an impact on their mental well-being, reflecting the growing impact of scams beyond legal and financial issues.
“Scammers exploit AI and social media, blurring the line between truth and falsehood, while phone, messaging, and SMS scams continue to spread,” said Gogolook.
Gogolook Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jeff Kuo said the improved app seeks to be a vital safeguard against these threats by bringing scam prevention closer to daily life.
“The new version establishes an anti-scam community built on four core pillars: global user reports, AI prediction technology, a comprehensive scam database, and collaboration with law enforcement and partners to ensure stronger protection,” said Kuo.
Gogolook Country Head and General Manager (GM) Mel Migriño said the upgraded app is the company’s response to the growing proliferation of scams in all forms of communication.
Migriño said Whoscall now offers comprehensive protection beyond its popular Caller ID, which identifies potential scams in real time.
“Recent upgrades include Web Checker, which automatically alerts users when they access phishing or fake websites, and Check, which allows users to upload screenshots or photos to identify potential risks,” she said.
Migriño said the update also introduces a virtual badge system, a gamified feature that allows users to earn in-app points, which can be redeemed for the app’s premium version or partner vouchers.
While Whoscall remains free to download and use in the Philippines, the app now offers two premium tiers: a Duo plan and a Family plan.
Whoscall garnered 9.5 million users across 57 countries last year, generating 135 million reports.
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