The Department of Health (DOH) has warned against fake contact tracers who acquire personal information from the victim through a phone call and request for payment.
The health department condemns this modus operandi, calling it unacceptable to take advantage of people in this time of public health crisis.
The DOH clarifies that it has no contact tracing team and advises the public to obtain important details when they get such calls to ensure that the callers are authorized by the barangay health emergency response team.
The department has asked the Philippine National Police (PNP) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for assistance.
The NBI has stated that they will act upon the complaints “regarding fake or bogus COVID-19 contact tracers.”
“The public is encouraged to report similar incidents to any police, LGU, DOH or law enforcement offices for appropriate action.” – Report from Kenneth Paciente
