PLDT Inc. wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. has blocked over 13 million SMS phishing in the first quarter of the year.
Smart said it also blacklisted almost 200,000 mobile numbers involved in phishing activities as the Philippine National Police raised the alarm on “hijack profile” cases.
Hijack profile happens when a hacker gains unauthorized access to someone’s social media account.
In some cases, the victims are locked out of their accounts. The offender then messages the victims’ contacts to ask for money, usually under the guise of a sickness or an unfortunate life event.
“Data is the new oil. Cybercriminals steal personal information to defraud you or use your identity to victimize people close to you. Guard your data. Don’t share it with people you don’t know,” reminded Joseph Ian Gendrano, PLDT and Smart chief information security officer.
To further keep customers safe from fraudulent activities, Smart is reminding the public to be wary of clicking dubious links on SMS or emails from unknown persons.
Elijah Mendoza, Smart digital communications senior manager, emphasized mindfulness when traversing the cyberspace and reading text messages.
“Phishing is the most common technique employed by bad actors to trick you into revealing your data. Don’t go on autopilot mode and click or tap links,” said Mendoza.
Phishing messages are often composed of ill-formed sentences with bad grammar.
Malicious websites often use low-resolution photos to mimic the page they are re copying.
