PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) recently facilitated a virtual learning session on cybersecurity among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and cooperatives in partnership with the Aboitiz Foundation and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“PLDT and Smart are firm in their commitment to ensuring all internet users, including MSMEs and cooperatives, can have a productive experience in a safe and secure digital space. We are continuously working towards improving the digital tools and solutions we offer so we can protect the public online,” said Stephanie Orlino, head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.

With the common goal of strengthening the digital confidence of local MSMEs and cooperatives, PLDT, Smart, Aboitiz Foundation, and the DTI, together with UnionBank of the Philippines, collaborated and consolidated their efforts of raising awareness and building much-needed skills to help protect all internet users against cybercrimes. During the session, key experts came together to discuss possible cybersecurity threats and their overall impact on doing business on both the smaller and larger scales.

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“We are doubling our efforts to trace and block malicious messages, including SIMs and websites linked to fraudulent activities as part of our mission to improve the overall digital experience of all internet users and prevent them from becoming victims of threats and attacks,” said Angel Redoble, first vice president and chief information security officer at PLDT and Smart.

Role of technology

PLDT and Smart recognize the key role of technology in helping MSMEs and cooperatives thrive during challenging times when the use of digital tools helped ensure business continuity despite physical limitations and restrictions. On the flip side, the digital space has also become a venue for cybercriminals to commit fraud through online and text scams.

To date, PLDT and Smart have already made significant investments in their cybersecurity infrastructure to provide internet users, such as MSMEs and cooperatives, opportunities to continue doing business online in a safe and secure manner and to safeguard the public against potential online criminal activities.

CyberSmart is one of PLDT and Smart’s core advocacies which aims to educate internet users on cybersecurity and to help them visualize the reality and seriousness of dangers in the cyberworld.