National Privacy Commission Investigates Surge of Scam Texts

In light of the recent surge in scam texts that solicit and misuse personal information, the National Privacy Commission (NPC) summoned the data protection officers of large industry players like Globe Telecom, Smart Communications, Dito Telecommunity, Lazada, and Shopee.

 

Contrary to initial suspicions of leaks in contact tracing information, the Commission has clarified that the smishing activities are run by a global crime syndicate.

 

Privacy Commissioner Raymund E. Liboro stated that they have asked industry players “ to detail their current and future measures to combat smishing” Furthermore, the Commission has asked the companies to keep them informed about the scam trends and to potentially coordinate in exchanging crucial information to prevent the unlawful collection and misuse of personal data.

 

Moreover, Commissioner Liboro has reminded data subjects to stay vigilant and to be critical about the messages received.

 

The full press release can be found here.