PNP-ACG: 3 suspects nabbed, 5 SMS blaster machines seized in Parañaque, Bacoor

The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) on Thursday said it arrested three individuals and confiscated five SMS blaster machines in separate operations.

At a press briefing, PNP-ACG chief Police Brigadier General Wilson Asueta said the operations targeted the illegal sale of SMS blaster machines, which are often used in text scams, phishing, and other fraudulent activities.

According to the PNP-ACG, the first operation was conducted on March 31 along Bradco Avenue in Parañaque City.

The operation, carried out by the Special Digital Action and Cybercrime Team (SDACT), resulted in the arrest of two suspects identified as “Ali” and “Kara,” who were allegedly selling an SMS blaster machine for P40,000.

Three SMS blasters were confiscated from the suspects.

Another entrapment operation was conducted on April 28 by the Cyber Financial Crime Unit (CFCU) at a fastfood restaurant in Bacoor, Cavite, leading to the arrest of alias “Jess.”

Authorities earlier discovered an online post allegedly advertising the sale of an SMS blaster machine believed to be among “POGO pull-out” items.

Investigators said undercover operatives negotiated with the suspect and agreed to purchase two units for P20,000 before arranging a meet-up that led to the arrest.

Confiscated from the suspect were two SMS blasters and an adaptor.

The suspect had allegedly been buying and selling POGO pull-out items online for the past six months.

Cases for violation of the Radio Control Law in relation to Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 were filed against the suspects.

An SMS blaster machine is a device capable of sending bulk text messages simultaneously to multiple mobile numbers.

Authorities said the technology may be used for legitimate purposes such as marketing promotions, customer notifications, verification codes, and emergency alerts.

However, the PNP warned that the devices are also commonly exploited for illegal activities, including smishing, spam messaging, phishing, fraud, and large-scale scam campaigns.

“Ang illegal na paggamit at pagbebenta ng SMS Blaster Machine ay maaaring magdulot ng panganib at paglabag sa batas sapagkat ito ay maaring gamitin sa panlilinlang o panloloko. Madalas itong naaabuso ng scammers dahil mabilis nitong naaabot ang libo-libong tao,” Asueta said.

(The illegal use and sale of SMS Blaster Machines poses a risk and violates the law because they can be used for deception or fraud. It is often abused by scammers because it can quickly reach thousands of people.)

“Kung makatanggap ka ng kahina-hinalang text, huwag mag-click ng link. Huwag magbigay ng personal o bank details. I-report agad sa PNP ACG o pinakamalapit na police station. Laging tandaan, maging mapanuri at huwag magpaloko,” he added.

(If you receive a suspicious text, do not click on the link. Do not provide personal or bank details. Report it immediately to the PNP ACG or the nearest police station. Always remember, be critical and do not be fooled.) —RF, GMA News