Globe, DICT ink MOU to fight fraud and scams

Ayala-led Globe Telecom Inc. and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) have inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that formalizes a collaborative framework for prevention and to investigate fraud cases.

According to Globe, the MOU will support government and industry-wide efforts to protect Filipinos from identity theft, phishing, SMS scams, and other fraudulent activities in the digital space.

It also ensures closer cooperation with DICT and its attached agencies — the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the National Privacy Commission (NPC), and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC).

The MOU takes effect immediately, and will run for two years subject to renewal upon mutual agreement. The parties have also committed to regular reviews of the framework for possible future enhancements amid evolving digital threats.

“By combining our resources, intelligence, and expertise with that of the government, we are creating stronger shields for Filipinos and ensuring that technology remains a force for good,” Globe President and Chief Executive Officer Carl Cruz said in an emailed statement.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to collective action against fraud and the protection of our people online,” DICT secretary Henry Aguda said.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) in June warned that scammers have been conducting text blasts, and convincing them to join by completing assigned tasks in exchange for financial gains.

Scam Watch Pilipinas, in partnership with Gogolook and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has also launched an online platform enabling Filipinos to report cyber scams. — BAP, GMA Integrated News