During the pandemic, cases of text scams with dodgy job offers that seemed too good to be true and are sent by random mobile phone numbers have been on the rise in the Philippines.“Dear, I am a human resources manager. You have been selected for a part-time/full-time job. Now you can reach P800-P10,000/day,” including an attached link, which the sender will ask you to click or open to proceed with the application process.
Another type of cybercrime that became heavily reported during the pandemic and has affected many Filipinos last year was a scam involving online banking.To keep their clients safe against unauthorized transactions, fraud, and scams, BDO Unibank has previously released some tips. These were: Do not click on website links—Fraud attacks, according to BDO, can come in the form of emails, SMS messages, phone calls, or messages via social media channels and a website link.
Do not share OTPs—OTPs sent out through text messages are considered as an added layer of protection, especially for banks and account holders.The Philippine National Police likewise reminded the public to be extra vigilant and careful with their online and social media transactions. “An important reminder: You will never be a victim of cybercrime if you would never give your personal information, such as one-time password, to other people. If you do not give your personal information to others, cybercriminals will never be able to steal your money.”