PNP Intensifies Crackdown on Scammers Posing as Government Aid Distributors Targeting Seniors

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its crackdown on scammers posing as government aid distributors after senior citizens in Cebu and Aklan were allegedly tricked into letting the suspects into their homes. "We have directed our local police units to closely coordinate with concerned government agencies and immediately act on reports involving individuals posing as government aid distributors," said PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. in a statement. Acorda said the PNP would also intensify its campaign against individuals posing as government aid distributors, especially those targeting senior citizens. He said the PNP would also step up its information campaign to warn the public against individuals posing as government aid distributors. "We urge the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or groups to the nearest police station," he added. According to the PNP, the scammers are believed to be members of organized crime syndicates. The PNP said the scammers would approach their victims, usually seniors, and offer them financial assistance from the government. "The scammers would then ask for their victims' personal information, such as their names, addresses, and bank account numbers, which they would then use to commit identity theft and other forms of fraud," the PNP said. The PNP said it had already arrested several individuals involved in the scam. "We will not stop until we have put an end to this menace," Acorda said. Source: Inquirer NewsInfo