The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) is sounding the alarm on a new wave of loan scams targeting Filipinos. These scams are often disguised as attractive offers from BPI and are spreading through social media and SMS messages.
Scammers attract victims with promises of super-low interest rates, quick approvals, and easy application processes. But these “too good to be true” deals are just that – a trap.
“Never click links attached to SMS,” warns CICC Executive Director Alexander K. Ramos. “Banks will never send clickable links through SMS or email.”
Ramos urges the public to be vigilant and avoid falling for these scams. “Huwag na pong matigas ang ulo para iwas sa scam.” (Don’t be stubborn and avoid these scams)
Instead of clicking on suspicious links, individuals are encouraged to contact their banks directly to inquire about loan applications. While this may take some time and require submitting the necessary documents, it’s the only safe and legitimate way to apply for a loan.
BPI has confirmed that the circulating SMS messages are indeed fraudulent and that they do not send out messages with clickable links. “If there‘s a link, huwag na mag overthink. Scam yan,” BPI said on its official social media page. (If there’s a link, don’t overthink. Its a scam).

Victims of loan scams and other cybercrimes are encouraged to report the incidents to the Inter-Agency Response Center hotline 1326, which operates 24/7, including holidays and weekends.
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