The leading finance app GCash has partnered with top anti-cybercrime agencies to launch an anti-fraud campaign this summer season.
Online Bantay Lakbay 2024 is a collaborative effort between Scam Watch Pilipinas, the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT), the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center (CICC), and the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (SAICT). The main goal of the campaign is to safeguard the public from online travel scams, especially during the summer vacation period.
The Online Bantay Lakbay initiative was officially introduced in Parañaque.
Various government agencies’ representatives were present at the inauguration of the PITX, such as DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos, Jr., DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy, MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, CICC Assistant Secretary Mary Rose Magsaysay, and PNP Chief P/Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr.
“Trust and security is our number priority and it goes beyond the GCash app. We are one with the government and other stakeholders in creating awareness among the public on how they can protect themselves from scammers. We also strongly support law enforcement efforts in running after fraudsters as we continue to build a safe digital ecosystem for all,” said Gilda Maquilan, GCash vice president for Corporate Communications and Public Affairs.
The DICT and DOTr have stated that GCash is a crucial partner in the campaign. As the largest cashless ecosystem in the country, GCash places a high priority on online security through its #GSafeTayo campaign. Educational banners produced by GCash will be showcased in all airport terminals (T1-4), Mactan, Clark, and Bohol. These banners will also be distributed at 44 seaports, 81 bus terminals, and 22 train stations nationwide.
See also: Latest Guide to Using GCash Overseas for OFWs & Travelers (2024 Edition)
The DICT and DOTr have also stressed the significance of users reporting scams and fraud to the appropriate authorities during the summer holidays by texting 1326. Additionally, GCash reminds users to never share their MPIN and OTP.
The Online Bantay Lakbay campaign has identified various common scams, including fake online bookings for travel and accommodation, discounted online tickets on social media with time-sensitive offers, phishing attempts through fake Wi-Fi networks, deceptive deals, ‘free’ vacation scams, fraudulent travel agents, overpriced tours, charity scams, counterfeit money, hidden cameras, fake taxis, sale of lost luggage on social media, fake SIM cards, and illegal fixers.
The launch of Online Bantay Lakbay serves as a strong warning to scammers while educating users to stay alert and vigilant against potential scams that could spoil their holiday.
