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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PNP steps up drive vs online scams ahead of increased Christmas spending

PNP steps up drive vs online scams ahead of increased Christmas spending

Published Nov 18, 2025 12:59 pm  |  Updated Nov 18, 2025 01:06 pm
photo: PNP
photo: PNP
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has further intensified the campaign against online scams in anticipation of the surge in the cases for the Christmas season.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said they expect cybercriminals to also step up fraudulent transactions, including online shopping scams and fake delivery schemes, to take advantage of increased holiday spending.
“We are on alert to protect our communities from these digital and delivery-related crimes,” said Nartatez.
He said he already directed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to increase surveillance on known scam hotspots, fake websites, and suspicious online sellers.
Nartatez also the deployment of dedicated “holiday cyber patrols” to track phishing campaigns, fraudulent ads, and emerging online threats circulating on social media and e-commerce platforms.
As part of the enhanced response, he said the PNP is prioritizing entrapment operations against groups behind parcel-delivery scams, fake online sellers, phishing syndicates, and SIM/OTP harvesting activities.
Cyber investigators are also mapping possible links between local fraud groups and foreign crime networks.
To prevent the circulation of fake parcels, the PNP is strengthening coordination with major couriers, online marketplaces, and payment service providers.
The PNP urged the public to use the Unified 911 System in reporting suspicious deliveries and high-risk accounts so they can be quickly flagged and investigated. The ACG is also working with fraud prevention teams of partner companies to help dismantle scam operations at the source.
He urged shoppers to verify sellers, read reviews, and rely on trusted platforms when purchasing online and enjoined communities to help spread accurate information and report scam attempts promptly.
“Keeping our netizens informed against all these scams is the key to deny these cybercriminals the opportunity to strike, while your PNP’s cyber patrolling and aggressive operations will put them to jail,” said Nartatez.
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