The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has issued a warning about a new SMS scam that is targeting GCash and Maya users. This new scam involves fraudulent messages being inserted into legitimate message threads, making it difficult for users to identify and avoid malicious links.
These fraudulent messages typically have links to fake websites designed to steal sensitive information such as One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and personal details. CICC Executive Director Alexander K. Ramos has confirmed that his office has received numerous complaints regarding this new scam.
To protect their users, GCash and Maya have been actively sending out advisories through various platforms. It is important to note that both companies will never send links via SMS, email, or messaging apps.
Smart Communications has also joined the effort by warning its customers about the dangers of clicking on links sent via text messages, even if they appear to be from trusted sources.
The CICC has urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid clicking on any suspicious links received via text messages.
Should you receive a suspicious message, report it to the Inter-Agency Response Center (IARC) Hotline 1326. You can report it to Smart’s HULISCAM portal (https://smart.com.ph/huliscam), through Smart’s verified social media pages on Facebook and X, or by calling the hotline *888.
