Senator Win Gatchalian warned against the proliferation of love scams as more people are expected to seek or try online dating amid the Love Month celebration.
In the midst of expanding digital transactions, Gatchalian recalled his proposed Senate Bill 2407, known as the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act. The bill aims to protect the nation’s financial system and ensure that financial accounts and their owners are protected and not lured by cybercriminals into committing illegal activities.
In the context of internet love scams, the scammer usually creates an attractive but fake social media profile account to capture the interest of potential victims.
The relationship between the scammer and the victim usually develops quickly. And once the scammer gains the victim’s trust and confidence, he will demand a large sum of money. Once the money is sent, the scammer seems to disappear quickly.
Gatchalian emphasized that both men and women are victims of this modus operandi, especially those who have relationship problems or those who are looking for a relationship, and those who are said to be emotionally vulnerable, including the elderly.
Gatchalian warns public against love scams
Victimization often takes place on dating apps or social media. The love scam is also one of those commonly used by syndicates associated with some Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), along with investment scams and cryptocurrency scams.
Gatchalian has already filed a bill aimed at punishing individuals who willingly allow themselves to be used as money mules, people who engage in social engineering schemes, and other fraudulent financial schemes, including love scams.
On Monday, the PNP also cautioned citizens about romantic frauds, citing a rise in internet offenses before Valentine’s Day.
“As we celebrate the month of February, dedicated to love, it is crucial to remain vigilant in the realm of cybercrime and protect ourselves and our loved ones from falling victim to love scams,” PNP Chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. said in a press briefing.
“Let us prioritize education on digital safety and stay vigilant,” he added.
Acorda reported a spike in internet crimes, noting 439 e-commerce frauds, 113 investment scheme scams, and 102 debit/credit card phishing incidents. From January 3 to February 8, the PNP’s Cybercrime Division executed 29 arrests and carried out 15 sting operations.
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