DOJ: Only authorized agencies can conduct cybercrime raids

MANILA, Philippines — Only authorized law enforcement agencies can conduct cybercrime raids, serve warrants and seize electronic devices, the Department of Justice’s Office of Cybercrime said.

The DOJ-OC warned that evidence obtained through irregular procedures or by those without legal authorities can lead to suppression and dismissal of cases.

In an advisory, the DOJ-OC said the Guidelines for Cybercrime Investigation and Prosecution serves as the “sole and uniform” standard for cybercrime investigation and forensic examination.

“The intervention of personnel from administrative agencies or entities not vested with law enforcement power poses a fatal risk to the case,” the advisory read.