DSWD cautions vs messages promising cash aid for personal info

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Monday warned the public against chat messages that falsely promise cash aid in exchange for one’s personal information.

In an advisory posted on its Facebook page, the DSWD shared a screenshot of one such message, in which the sender promised to include the recipient in a supposed list of financial assistance beneficiaries.

The message then asked for the recipient’s phone number.

The DSWD disowned the message as fake and stressed that this is not how the agency extends assistance to its beneficiaries.

“Ang DSWD ay hindi humihingi ng personal na impormasyon sa pamamagitan ng chat o private message kapalit ng cash assistance,” the agency said.

(The DSWD does not ask for personal information through chat or private message in exchange for cash assistance.)

“Kung may hinihinging kapalit, magduda ka na. Dito kadalasang nagsisimula ang SCAM,” it added.

(If they ask for something in return, you should doubt it. This is where scams often start.)

The DSWD urged the public to be on alert and refrain from sharing personal information.

“Bago mag-click, mag-reply, o magbigay ng inyong pagkakakilanlan, tiyaking ito ay mula lamang sa opisyal at mapagkakatiwalaang sources ng DSWD,” the agency stressed.

(Before you click, reply, or identify yourself, make sure that the message is from official and trustworthy sources of the DSWD.)

The public may reach out to the DSWD’s Field Offices, the Local Social Welfare and Development Office (LSWDO) in your city or municipality, or the DSWD’s official Facebook page or website if they wish to avail of the DSWD’s programs.

“Tandaan: Walang backer, walang bayad at dumadaan sa tamang proseso ang tulong ng DSWD,” the DSWD added.

(Remember: The DSWD’s help does not need backers or payments as it goes through the right process.) — JMA, GMA News