Police, fintech firm unite to protect Filipinos from online loan scams

The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has partnered with fintech lending firm JuanHand to strengthen efforts against online scams and promote responsible digital borrowing, as cybercrime continues to pose risks to Filipino consumers.

The partnership aims to protect the public through information sharing, training programs, and public awareness initiatives focused on safe borrowing practices and identifying predatory lending schemes. Under the collaboration, PNP-ACG and JuanHand will conduct educational campaigns and workshops to help Filipinos recognize and report suspicious online activities.

“Our partnership with PNP-ACG reinforces JuanHand’s commitment to protect Filipinos in the digital lending space,” said Francisco Roberto D.C. Mauricio, president and chief executive officer of JuanHand. “Through education and collaboration, we aim to help consumers avoid scams and borrow safely from legitimate platforms. Responsible borrowing is a force for good that ultimately leads to financial empowerment. JuanHand and PNP-ACG will work closely together to provide Pinoys a safe and secure lending environment that positively impacts their lives.”

The initiative highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity in the fintech sector, where online lending platforms have expanded rapidly alongside increased reports of digital fraud. PNP-ACG said partnerships with private sector players are essential to keeping pace with evolving cyber threats and ensuring prompt, coordinated action against criminal activities online.

JuanHand, operated by WeFund Lending Corp., said it has released more than P85 billion in loans and recorded over 20 million registrations nationwide. The company positions itself as a provider of fast and accessible credit to underserved communities, supported by artificial intelligence and compliance measures.

The PNP-ACG is the specialized unit of the Philippine National Police tasked with enforcing laws against cybercrime and protecting the public from fraudulent financial entities.