ACG steps up cyber patrol as ‘ber’ months start

As the “ber” months, which run until December, have begun in the Philippines, the unofficial countdown to Christmas is now in full swing. In response, the Philippine National Police’s Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) is further intensifying its vigilance against online scams. ACG director Maj. Gen. Wilson Asueta has ordered cybercrime investigators to patrol online platforms used by scammers. This measure is in consideration of the situation where citizens tend to become targets of scams as the year-end approaches. According to data from the ACG, a total of 323 operations were conducted against the illegal sale of financial accounts and online swindling from January 1 to July 31 this year. This figure suggests that cybercrime remains a serious issue in the Philippines. Cybercrime in the Philippines poses a risk to many citizens, including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who fall victim to online personal information trading, investment scams, and phishing scams. Particularly, the “ber” months tend to see an increase in scams targeting people expecting bonuses or extra income. Therefore, the ACG is urging the public to be cautious of suspicious links and information. Source: Philstar Nation