The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has directed the three local mobile operators to continue blocking subscriber identity module (SIM) cards used in sending text scam messages.
In a memorandum signed by NTC Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba and dated October 4, the telecoms regulator directed DITO Telecommunity Corp., Globe Telecom Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. to continue blocking SIM cards that are being used to perpetrate fraudulent activities.
Cordoba also ordered the telcos to further expand the messaging reach of their respective public information campaigns regarding the new variants of text scams.
The NTC mandated the telcos to continue the text blast to their subscribers from October 5 to 11.
“The Commission has determined the need to continue its efforts against fake job, lucky winner, bonus cash and other similar money scams targeting the public,” the NTC said.
In another memorandum, the NTC directed all its regional directors and officers-in-charge to appear before different local radio and television stations within their respective jurisdictions at least 10 times to warn and educate the public on how to properly report the text scams to the NTC.
In September, the agency launched its NTC Kontra Text Scam campaign releasing instructions for the public to follow to avoid being victimized by text scam fraudsters.
The campaign informed the public of the process to identify and report text scams via the NTC email and website. – Myla Iglesias
