Surge of online scams sparks alarm in Cagayan Valley

Cagayan, Philippines – “If it is too good to be true, this is just a fraud.”

The Officer-in-Charge of Regional Anti-CyberCrime Unit in Cagayan Valley, LtCol. Christopher Luyun said this as he raised the alarm bells over the apparent growing number of online scams in the region, warning netizens against falling prey to fraudsters’ scheme.

The highest amount of money swindled this year is P3 million, Luyun relayed in his interview with Cagayan Provincial Information Office – Teleradyo that aired Friday, July 21, 2023.

Of the 236 total cases received by the unit from January up to date, 96 are online scam cases, followed by 36 online libel cases, and 28 cases of illegal access or hacking.

In Cagayan province alone, 52 cases of the same were brought to the said unit. Some of which were tagged as resolved, while others were turned over to the Prosecutor’s Office. Only 14 cases are under investigation.

Luyun noted the scammers entice netizens to join their group for investment purposes, promising them to grow their money but after receiving the victims’ supposed capital, they cut them off. Most of swindlers do not accept payment in person but through remittances.

The public is advised to check the legitimacy of the business being offered before entering into one. It is crucial, according to the official to first check if the company is Securities and Exchange Commission-registered. If not, don’t even think of providing any information that they may use to take away your hard-earned money.

In case, you or someone you know fall victim to any online scams, contact the unit’s hotline 0956-1888-421 or you may proceed to any police station and the RACU will take action in no time, assured Luyun.

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