With the boom in digitization, especially in financial technology (fintech), godparents should take caution in handing out digital gifts such as through the use of digital wallets as scammers lurk.

In an interview during a thanksgiving party, digital lawyer Nicasio “Nick” Conti had asked ninongs and ninangs to be careful in sending money as there could be posers claiming to be their inaanaks (godchildren).

“They could be claiming to be somebody’s godchildren claiming that they got a new number or had asked the number of their friend for sending their aguinaldo using the digital transfers. Do not be scammed,” Conti said.

Conti said Filipinos carry a traditional aguinaldo or the giving of money by the godfathers and godmothers to their inaanak during Christmas.

With the emergence of technology particularly in the digital age, he said even the Filipino tradition had to adjust.

Conti called on Filipinos to exercise caution in their use of digital platforms, particularly during the holiday season, to avoid falling victim to scams and crimes.

“As the trend of sending digital aguinaldo or monetary gifts online becomes more popular, we advise ninongs and ninangs to verify the identities of their inaanaks before transferring money. Scammers are getting more creative, and we must remain vigilant to protect our hard-earned money,” Conti, a recognized digital lawyer and advocate for cybersecurity, added.