PLDT and Smart have blocked access to ten crypto exchanges flagged by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for operating without proper licenses.
The move follows an order from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). The affected platforms include OKX, Bybit, Mexc, Kucoin, Bitget, Phemex, Coinex, Bitmart, Poloniex, and Kraken.
The SEC warned that these exchanges are not registered under its crypto-asset service provider (CASP) rules. It said users face serious risks, such as losing all their money, having no legal protection, and being exposed to fraud, identity theft, and market manipulation. The platforms may also be used for money laundering and terrorist financing.
PLDT and Smart continue to invest in cybersecurity to protect users. In the first half of 2025, their Cyber Security Operations Group blocked over 100 billion attempts to access harmful websites.
This latest action is part of a broader effort to protect Filipino users from online threats and risky financial platforms.
