PNP-ACG and GCash Join Forces in Social Media Crackdown on Cybercrime

In a concerted effort to boost public trust and enhance the safety of digital financial transactions, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), in partnership with GCash, continues its proactive patrol of social media platforms, leading to the recent apprehension of multiple cybercrime suspects.

In one of the operations, authorities arrested a suspect accused of exploiting a minor via a popular online platform. The suspect allegedly arranged a meeting between the victim and a client at a hotel, unaware that law enforcement had been monitoring the exchange. Executed by the PNP-ACG’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons/Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (Anti-TIP/OSAEC) unit, the operation resulted in the rescue of the minor and the arrest of the perpetrator under Republic Act 9208, as amended by Republic Act 10364, which address human trafficking and online sexual exploitation.

In a separate string of operations, multiple individuals were caught selling pre-registered SIM cards—a tactic commonly used in financial scams and online fraud. These illegally registered SIMs were being offered on social media, allowing bad actors to maintain anonymity and evade detection. Arrests were made under Republic Act 11934 (SIM Registration Act) in connection with Republic Act 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012). Violations of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA) were also recorded in related cases.

Through these coordinated efforts, GCash reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding its platform and ensuring digital tools are used for empowerment—not exploitation. The company continues to collaborate closely with authorities to foster a secure and trustworthy cashless ecosystem.

Both the PNP-ACG and GCash urge the public to remain vigilant when transacting online, particularly on social media. Report suspicious activity through the following channels:

PNP-ACG: Call (02) 8414-1560 / 0998-598-8116 or email acg@pnp.gov.ph

GCash: Visit the GCash Help Center, message Gigi on the GCash website and type “I want to report a scam”, or call the GCash hotline 2882

To strengthen account security, GCash reminds users never to share their MPINs or OTPs, and to avoid clicking suspicious links that may lead to phishing or unauthorized access. GCash emphasizes that it will never request personal information via private messages.

For more safety tips and updates, visit www.gcash.com