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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PNP partners with DICT, DTI to neutralize online 'quishing' syndicates

PNP partners with DICT, DTI to neutralize online 'quishing' syndicates

Published Jul 24, 2026 03:04 pm
(File image)
(File image)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday, July 24, that it would strengthen its partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to dismantle groups behind fake QR code scams that target online buyers and sellers.
Police Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., PNP chief, warned the public against QR code phishing or “quishing,” a scheme in which cybercriminals use fake QR codes to redirect victims to fraudulent websites that steal banking credentials, passwords, personal information, and other sensitive data.
He said the intensified coordination forms part of the government's campaign against cyber-enabled crimes and online fraud.
“Bad elements are using technology to scam people, and we cannot allow this to happen. The PNP will strengthen its partnership with the DICT and the DTI in going after groups and individuals involved in fake QR codes,” Nartatez said.
The PNP chief said police will step up operations to identify and locate the people behind fake QR codes by using the organization's cybercrime investigation capabilities and other law enforcement mechanisms.
Police said scammers have also been replacing legitimate QR payment codes on online selling platforms to divert payments to fraudulent accounts.
“These QR codes are supposed to simplify payment transactions on online selling platforms. However, criminals are exploiting them to victimize and scam the public for their own gain,” Nartatez said.
Meanwhile, Nartatez reminded the public to verify the source of QR codes before scanning them or entering personal and financial information.
“We call on the public to remain vigilant and discerning so that they will not fall victim to these scams,” he said.
He also encouraged the public to immediately report suspicious QR codes to the police.
“Report to us immediately if you almost became a victim of these fake QR codes,” Nartatez said.

Related Tags

PNP cybercrime quishing
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