Friday, September 19, 2025

Scam epidemic hits 7 in 10 Filipinos

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Nearly 72 percent of Filipinos said they have encountered a scam, averaging one every two days, the 2025 Asia Scam Report: Philippines, showed.

The study, released by Gogolook and the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), revealed that 52 percent of respondents reported psychological stress, while 40 percent said scams harmed their mental well-being. The findings suggest fraud has become not only a legal and financial issue but also a public health concern.

Scammers are increasingly using artificial intelligence and social media to blur the line between truth and deception, even as phone, messaging, and SMS fraud remain rampant.

“Scams are infiltrating all forms of communication—from messaging apps and digital ads to even physical deliveries,” Gogolook country head and general manager Mel Migriño said at a September 18 briefing. She added that social platforms, with their openness and high engagement, are now prime targets for deepfakes and AI bots.

To fight back, Gogolook launched an upgraded version of its Whoscall anti-scam app in the Philippines, combining advanced AI protection with a “growth-driven anti-scam community” where users can report fraud, collaborate, and earn rewards. The company expects to add one million Filipino users this year.

The refreshed Whoscall app features a new “W” logo—combining a handshake and an uplifted hand—to symbolize collective action. It also introduced “Vee,” an interactive character designed as a friendly advisor to bridge users with the anti-scam community.

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