Authorities raid call center that allegedly harasses debtors

Authorities raided an alleged debt collection call center in Ortigas, according to Jonathan Andal’s “24 Oras Weekend” report.

The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) found at least 50 call center agents working in the company.

The call center agents allegedly harass and humiliate individuals who have unpaid debts with online lending apps.

The PNP-ACG received several complaints, noting that the relatives and friends of those who have debts were being called and messaged.

“Minsan hina-harass yung family nila and also yung mga contacts nila, yung mga friends nila doon sa contacts nila ay ina-access din at tine-text regarding kung hindi sila nakakapagbayad,” Police Lieutenant Michelle Sabino, PNP ACG operations spokesperson, said.

(Their families were harassed and also those in their contacts and friends were being messaged if they were not able to pay.)

The police, along with the Securities and Exchange Commission, inspected and checked the license of the said company.

Authorities confiscated computers, sim cards, and other items that could be used as evidence.

“Inapplayan natin ng warrant to search and seize and examine computer data... ang misuse of device,” OIC PNP-ACG Police Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding said.

(We applied for a warrant to search and seize and examine computer data of the misuse of the device.)

The owner of the company has yet to release a statement.

Under the Data Privacy Act, the use of personal information without the owner's consent is prohibited, including access to their contact information. Passing on sensitive information to third parties or acquaintances was also prohibited. — Richa Noriega/DVM, GMA News