Integrated network operator PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) are intensifying their efforts to tackle scams and cybercrimes in the Philippines. With mobile-based transactions comprising 64% of the country’s total, scammers have increasingly targeted the nation.
“The Philippines is a mobile-first country, which unfortunately makes it a prime target for fraud. Our responsibility as a telco is to protect both consumers and enterprises,” said John Gonzales, FVP at PLDT and president and CEO of PLDT Clarktel, during the Digital Nation Summit Manila, organized by GSMA.
Gonzales detailed several initiatives, including participation in GSMA’s Open Gateway Initiative, which uses standardized application programming interfaces (APIs) to enhance digital security. He also highlighted upcoming technologies from PLDT and Smart designed to improve safety.
“By next year, we aim to roll out silent authentication to replace traditional OTPs, device location validation to detect fraudulent transactions, and improved Know Your Customer (KYC) measures to ensure secure operations,” said Gonzales.
Beyond technology, Gonzales emphasized collaboration with stakeholders and public education as critical to combating scams.
“Our #BeCyberSmart campaign continues to share practical tips to help people recognize and avoid scams,” he said.
Smart reported blocking nearly two billion malicious messages and blacklisting one million scam-related numbers in the first 10 months of 2024. The company is also tackling fake cell towers used by scammers to send fraudulent messages.
“We will continue working with government agencies, like the National Telecommunications Commission and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, to crack down on cybercriminals,” Gonzales said.