MANILA, Philippines — As the Christmas season draws near, the Philippine National Police yesterday warned the public against people using the PNP’s name to solicit money or any form of assistance.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said any form of solicitation using the name of the police organization is strictly prohibited.
Nartatez noted that scammers would take every opportunity to deceive the public to gain money.
“We have directed police personnel nationwide not to entertain or respond to solicitation messages. We urge the public to report suspicious activities,” he said.
Nartatez gave the warning after police observed an uptick in fake text messages, emails, phone calls and social media posts seeking support for supposed PNP projects or beneficiaries.
To counter the fraudulent posts, Nartatez instructed police to issue advisories clarifying that any solicitation in the PNP’s name is unauthorized.
PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuano said they are working with the media in informing the public about the activities of scammers.
People who receive suspicious messages can report to the Anti-Cybercrime Group.