Globe adopts multi-layered defenses vs. scammers

Telecommunication firm Globe has adopted a multi-layered approach that combines network protection, threat intelligence, industry collaboration, and customer education to keep pace with evolving threats and protect the public against scammers.

"Scammers are constantly looking for new ways to reach potential victims. As the industry strengthens controls against one type of attack, we often see fraudsters shift to different tactics and platforms," said Garrett Silao, Chief Information Security Officer at Globe.

"This is why anti-scam efforts cannot rely on a single solution. It requires continuous innovation, collaboration, and public awareness," he added.

The telco has steadily strengthened its defenses against digital scams through measures such as securing enterprise sender IDs, blocking malicious links, detecting SIM box operations, and using network analytics to identify suspicious activity.

These initiatives have helped reduce common SMS-based scams that previously targeted millions of mobile users.

Globe said that as traditional attack methods become harder to execute, scammers have begun adopting more sophisticated techniques such as the use of illegal IMSI Catchers, or fake cell towers, which trick nearby mobile devices into connecting to them instead of legitimate cellular infrastructure.

Unlike spoofed SMS messages that originate within messaging systems, IMSI catchers exploit cellular networks by broadcasting a stronger signal that tricks nearby phones into automatically connecting to them and bypassing security controls.

Globe said it is working closely with enterprise partners to secure legitimate messaging channels, proactively blocks known phishing websites, and shares intelligence with financial institutions, government agencies, and law enforcement to help detect and respond to emerging threats more quickly.

It has also expanded its consumer protection efforts beyond technical safeguards. Through initiatives such as Go Safe with Globe, Scam Shield on the GlobeOne app, customer advisories, and digital literacy campaigns, the company continues to equip Filipinos with practical knowledge to recognize and avoid scams before they cause harm.

"Technology plays a critical role in protecting customers, but awareness is equally important," Silao said.

"The more informed people are about how scams work, the more difficult it becomes for fraudsters to succeed. Protecting consumers is a shared responsibility that requires industry, government, and the public to work together," he added. —AOL, GMA News