Stay alert vs. scams ahead of “Undas” - GCash
Metro Manila, Philippines - As Filipinos remember loved ones this “Undas,” GCash issued a reminder to stay alert online against scammers taking advantage of users during the holidays through text and chat messages that pretend to come from official channels.
“As we commemorate this season of remembering our departed loved ones, digital safety remains a top priority. GCash continues to strengthen its systems and educate users to recognize and avoid scams, especially spoofing,” said Miguel Geronilla, GCash chief information security officer.
Scam tactics
The e-wallet provider said scammers are cunning and will employ different ways to deceive people, including spoofing where fraudsters disguise their identity to make messages, emails, or calls appear as if they’re coming from trusted sources like GCash or other official institutions.
These messages may look official, but the goal is to trick users into clicking on malicious links or sharing sensitive information such as OTP (one time password), MPIN (mobile banking personal identification number), or account details. Never click suspicious links or share personal details like your OTP, MPIN, or account credentials, GCash said.
Some spoofing attempts come from fake GCash Facebook pages or Messenger accounts designed to look real. Check for the verified blue checkmark and report suspicious accounts. The only official page is GCash Official.
Never share MPIN or OTP
Fraudsters may pose as GCash agents offering “account verification” or “cashback.” GCash said it will never ask for MPIN, OTP, or personal details. Sharing these gives scammers access to an account. Always double-check before responding to any message.
It said GCash will never send links via SMS, email, or chat apps. Only transact through the official GCash app or verified GCash channels on Facebook and Messenger.
It further gave this advice: if you receive a link claiming to fix an account issue or confirm a transaction, don’t click it. Phishing pages are designed to steal your login credentials. Instead, open your GCash app directly to verify any alerts or transactions.
Report, stay informed
GCash said if you think you’ve received a spoofed message or encountered a phishing attempt,
immediately report it through the “Help Center” in the GCash app. The GCash security teams continuously monitor and act on reported scams to protect users.
It added that scam victims are encouraged to report and file cases to initiate the investigation. For assistance, the public can contact the PNP ACG through their hotlines at (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116, or via email at acg@pnp.gov.ph and the CICC national hotline at 1326 or mobile number 0991 4814225, or via email at report@cicc.gov.ph.
GCash users may also report suspected fraudulent activities to the official GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by messaging Gigi, "I want to report a scam." Customers can also contact the official GCash hotline at 2882 for inquiries and other concerns.
For more information and updates on cybersecurity, visit the PNP-ACG Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/anticybercrimegroup and GCash website at https://www.gcash.com.
Download the GCash app for free on Google Play or the App Store. For safety reminders and updates, visit the official Facebook page at GCash Official, or visit www.gcash.com.
