PAL warns vs fake SMS to redeem points, gifts

The public is warned on Monday against fake short message service (SMS) that claim to be sent by the flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) urging receivers to click a link to redeem gifts and bonuses of up to P30,000.

In a Facebook post, PAL showed that the sender, a certain “PHAirlines,” sends an SMS stating that the receiver has some points that will expire “tonight.”

Receivers of the fake SMS would be fooled to think that they should reply right away so the points are not wasted and so are encouraged to click the link to redeem prizes offered.

“These messages are fake. They do not come from PAL. Instead, they are part of a scam – a phishing attempt designed to steal your personal information and compromise your data privacy,” the airline company said.

“We will never send you an SMS message asking you to redeem miles by clicking a link,” the company also said.

Receivers, instead, should do the following to avoid falling victim to the scam:

• Do not click on any link in the message
• Do not provide any personal information such as passwords, credit card details, or other sensitive data.
• Delete the message immediately to avoid any potential security risks.

Official communication from PAL on Mabuhay Miles updates are sent via news@comms.mabuhaymiles.com and esoa@comms.mabuhaymiles.com.

The Mabuhay Miles is PAL’s frequent flyer program that allows members to earn points for travel and other rewards and benefits.

PAL said announcements are only posted on its official website and Facebook page. — Mariel Celine Serquiña/BAP, GMA Integrated News