Globe has issued a new warning about a scam involving spoofed messages falsely claiming to be from its Rewards program, urging customers to remain cautious.
Scammers are using fake cell towers, known as IMSI catchers, to send SMS messages that mimic official Globe advisories. These messages falsely inform users that their Globe Rewards points are about to expire and direct them to a fraudulent link. Once clicked, the link leads to a counterfeit website designed to steal sensitive information, such as addresses, or demand payments.
“We once again call on customers to be extra vigilant and not to click on any links in text messages that claim to be from Globe,” Anton Bonifacio, CISO of Globe, said in a media release. “Globe does not send clickable links in its official advisories. These messages are not from us and are designed to steal your personal information.”
The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has traced the phishing campaign to an IP address in Romania, noting it began on Nov. 27, 2024. Globe is collaborating with the CICC to address the situation.
Bonifacio emphasized the evolving nature of such schemes, which often exploit technologies beyond Globe’s direct control.
“As we continue to enhance security and protect both our customers and our network, scammers continue to evolve their tactics to target mobile users,” he said. “Stay cautious and discerning.”
To protect against these scams, Globe advises users to avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages, never share personal details like passwords or credit card numbers, and report suspicious texts through its Stop Spam portal.