The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), in partnership with financial platform GCash, has arrested several suspects linked to cybercrimes as part of joint efforts to monitor social media and protect digital transactions.
According to the media advisory sent by GCash, in one operation, authorities rescued a minor and arrested a suspect for alleged trafficking. The police said the suspect arranged a meeting between the minor and a client through an online platform. The operation was carried out by the PNP-ACG’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children team. The suspect faces charges under the Republic Act 9208 and the Republic Act 10364.
In separate operations, law enforcement also arrested individuals accused of selling pre-registered SIM cards online. These SIMs are often used by scammers to avoid detection. The suspects were charged under Republic Act 11934 (SIM Registration Act) and Republic Act 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act). Authorities also flagged violations of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act in related investigations.
GCash said it continues to support the government’s efforts to fight online fraud and exploitation.
Both PNP-ACG and GCash have urged the public to exercise caution when using online platforms for financial transactions. Suspicious activity can be reported to PNP-ACG via hotline (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116, or email at acg@pnp.gov.ph. GCash users can report scams at help.gcash.com, by messaging Gigi on the GCash website, or by calling 2882.
To stay safe, users are reminded not to share MPINs or OTPs and to avoid clicking on unknown links. GCash emphasized it does not ask for personal details via private messages.
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