PNP warns public vs online scams ahead of Christmas

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday warned the public against online scams as fraudsters are expected to take advantage of increased shopping and digital transactions ahead of the Christmas season.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. urged Filipinos to verify the identities and legitimacy of online sellers and individuals before sending money or completing transactions.

He warned that scammers continue to devise new schemes targeting unsuspecting consumers, particularly vulnerable sectors.

“Scammers will take every opportunity to deceive and lure the public as the holiday season approaches,” Nartatez said.

“From fake holiday promos and supposed winnings to delivery scams, these scammers will think of other ways to take advantage of our kababayans. We therefore remind the public to be extra vigilant and verify first before making any transactions, especially online,” he added.

Nartatez said the PNP is intensifying its campaign against holiday-related fraud in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive, through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen cybercrime enforcement.

With Christmas approaching, the PNP is stepping up measures to counter fraudulent activities linked to increased online shopping and digital payments.

“Our concerned police units, particularly the Anti-Cybercrime Group, continue to innovate and improve measures that will address these scams amid the holiday season,” Nartatez said.

He also encouraged victims to immediately report fraudulent transactions to authorities to help investigators track down and prosecute those responsible.