PNP offers tips to avoid cybercrime after ‘Mark Nagoyo’ bank transfers

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday issued reminders to the public following reports of unauthorized transfers from BDO Unibank Inc. accounts to accounts under the name of “Mark Nagoyo.”

In a statement, the PNP urged social media users to be careful in accepting random friend requests as cyber criminals often create fake accounts to befriend their potential victims.

“Trust no online friends unless you know them personally,” the PNP said.

Cybercriminals also send emails with infected attachments. The PNP advised the public not to respond or open to such emails, embedded links, and attachments.

“Such communication may be classified as phishing emails. If unsure, you may contact the company or organization claimed by the email source to verify if the communication is legitimate or fraudulent,” it said.

The PNP also discouraged the public from providing vital information especially contact and bank details and advised to limit the use of contact numbers online.

“Avoid unsecured Wi-Fi hotspots; set your device so that it doesn’t automatically connect to external sources,” the PNP said.

“Disable Bluetooth when not in use so you can veer away from attackers exploiting open connections,” it added.

The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) also alerted the public against the “Drive-by Download Attack” that involves malicious programs, which are installed to the device without the computer user’s consent.

It includes unintentional downloads of any files or bundled software onto a computer device. This attack causes even legitimate sites to spread this threat, the PNP-ACG said.

“Don’t rush in downloading phone applications and carefully download those from trusted sources,” the police group said.

“Enable layers of security by using passwords and other encryption features like a two-factor authentication system,” it added.

For those who may encounter similar issues, the PNP said they may contact the ACG through email address acg@pnp.gov.ph or telephone number at (632) 723 0401 local 7483. — BM, GMA News