By Brian Jules Campued
Scams involving online selling, debit/credit cards, and investments topped reports of cybercrime incidents as cases surged by nearly 22% in the first quarter of 2024, the Philippine National Police (PNP) revealed Sunday.
In its latest data, the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) recorded a total of 4,469 cybercrime cases from January to March 2024, a 21.84% increase from 3,668 incidents in the fourth quarter of 2023.
ACG chief Maj. Gen. Sidney Hernia said online selling scams contributed some 990 cases to the total number of cases, followed by 319 cases of investment scams and 309 cases of debit/credit card fraud.
Hernia, meanwhile, did not mention the other forms of cybercrimes comprising the first quarter data.
The uptick in cybercrime incidents can be attributed to factors, such as increased online activity, sophisticated tactics of cybercriminals, and lack of awareness, according to the ACG chief.
“The increasing reliance on online platforms for shopping, financial transactions, and investment opportunities has created a larger pool of potential targets for cybercriminals,” he added.
Hernia also underscored the need for the public to be better informed by “actively reading, listening to, and watching news” about cybercrimes.
“Familiarizing yourself with the red flags in online transactions is important for safeguarding against potential scams and frauds,” he said. – avds
