DICT warns of online scams

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is warning the public against phishing and online scams which take advantage of the existing situation brought about by the coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19 pandemic.

The DICT said scammers are using the pandemic to take advantage of people, many of whom are vulnerable to their schemes during these uncertain times.

The agency said it has received reports of people receiving e-mails asking them to click a link to prevent deactivation of their bank accounts due to COVID-19.

“Doing so will compromise account security,” the DICT said.
“The DICT cyber security bureau urges everyone to be cautious,” it said.
To safeguard accounts, DICT is urging the public to ignore any suspicious emails, calls or text messages, and report them to their respective banks immediately.

“If you are concerned about the authenticity of the email, call, text message, contact your bank immediately and provide all necessary details about the message,” it said.

The DICT also encourages the public to use only the official apps of their banks.

Meanwhile, the DICT said offers and invitations to participate in schemes promising easy money especially in these difficult times must also be carefully studied and examined.
The agency said the public must likewise be wary of text scams using the name of government officials, wherein one would receive a text message stating they won money via electronic raffle.
“If an investment opportunity sounds too good to be true, it is,” it said.
The DICT is continuously educating and empowering users in proactively taking measures to ensure their cybersecurity as the country faces the COVID-19 pandemic.
The agency has earlier advised the public to be cautious in using video and teleconferencing applications following reports of alleged security issues.