THE PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) has reported a decrease in the number of photo and video voyeurism cases in the first four months of the year, crediting the feat to increased public awareness.
In a statement last Tuesday night, the ACG said it recorded 86 cases of photo and video voyeurism from January 1 to May 1 this year, a 39 percent decrease compared to the same period last year.
The ACG said it has “intensified its public awareness initiatives through a series of dialogues, seminars, and informative social media campaigns” to combat cybercrimes.
“These efforts have contributed to a decline in cybercrimes, particularly photo and video voyeurism, as more people become aware of the risks associated with sharing explicit content online,” it said.
The ACG said it will continue strengthening its “proactive cyber patrolling and digital literacy campaigns” to create a safer and better-informed online environment.
ACG acting director Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang said: “The decrease in reported cybercrime cases reflects our collaborative efforts in promoting a safer online environment, especially for the youth, who are among the most vulnerable to crimes like photo and video voyeurism.
“We assure the public that the ACG remains fully committed to its mandate of eradicating cybercrime,” added Yang.
The ACG also reported it had conducted 360 operations from January to March this year, including 193 entrapment operations and 131 service of arrest warrants.
It said these operations led to the arrest of 369 individuals linked to various cybercrime activities.
The ACG said these operations were focused on illegal online activities like the sale of unregistered SIM cards, financial accounts, prohibited devices like International Mobile Subscriber Identity catchers and text blast machines.
It said these operations were conducted in line with the directive of PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil to intensify anti-cybercrime efforts and promote a safer online cyberspace.
“The PNP ACG is firmly committed to protecting the public from cybercriminals who misuse technology for illicit purposes. We continue to urge everyone to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious online activity to ensure appropriate and timely action,” said Yang.
