PNP ACG: Online Scams Decline Due to Improved Public Awareness

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG) recorded a decline in online scam cases during the first half of 2026, with 4,509 incidents reported from January 1 to June 30. This marks a decrease from the 5,526 incidents logged in the same period of 2025. According to ACG Director Police Maj. Gen. Wilson Asueta, the reduction is a result of enhanced public awareness and ongoing cyber awareness and education campaigns, supported by media, private and public partners, and financial institutions. "I can say it’s with the help of all of us, especially with the media, in cyber awareness and our education campaign," Asueta told reporters on Wednesday. He added, "I see the support of other groups, particularly the private and public partners, to include the financial establishments who are promoting cyber awareness." Despite the positive trend, Asueta cautioned the public against scams utilizing quick response (QR) codes. The ACG has received reports of individuals scanning victims' QR codes, leading them to malicious websites designed to harvest personal and financial information. "Scams are evolving with the technology’s trends," Asueta observed, emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance and observation from the public. While the government is investing in improving citizens' cyber literacy, the evolving nature of online fraud necessitates constant adaptation and public education to counter new modus operandi, especially relevant for a nation with a significant number of overseas job seekers susceptible to online recruitment and investment scams.