Authorities warned political candidates against the use of International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catchers during the 12 May midterm elections, saying it could lead to sanctions.

In a briefing, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) explained that IMSI catchers — often used for text scams — mimic cell towers and trick nearby phones into connecting to them, allowing the collection of IMSI numbers, unique identifiers for mobile devices.

DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy said IMSI catchers could be used to conduct mass text blasts during elections, giving candidates an unfair advantage by reaching a wider audience.

“In past elections, we saw that IMSI catchers were used for text blasting, and previously, these devices were in high demand among politicians, especially during election campaigns,” Uy said.

To recall, On Tuesday, the Philippine National Police-Anti Cybercrime Group arrested a 46-year-old Malaysian national in Parañaque City, believed to be the head of a syndicate supplying IMSI catchers for illicit activities.

The Malaysian suspect faces charges for violating the Cybercrime Prevention Act, the Philippine Radio Station and Radio Communication Act, the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Act and the Data Privacy Act.

Uy explained that the device, which costs around P600,000, is also known as a “stingray,” rogue cell tower, fake cell tower, cell site simulator, or drop box. Once connected, it can collect IMSI numbers of devices, enabling it to track their location and activity, as well as intercept text messages, calls and data traffic.

The IMSI catcher can be used for mass SMS broadcasting without the need for a database, SIM card or WiFi connection.

“We would like to remind candidates that these devices are illegal, unlicensed, and subject to confiscation and criminal prosecution if found in their possession,” Uy said, citing that IMSI catchers are typically smuggled into the country.