PNP: Scammers on a rush as SIM registration nears deadline

This a reminder to the public to be more vigilant as scammers work double-time to victimize as many as possible before the SIM registration deadline.

File photo of a SIM card

Scammers are in a rush!

According to a report by GMA News Online, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) said it has observed that scammers are rushing their illegal scheme as the government and telcos also expedite the SIM registration program.

ACG Director Police Brigadier General Joel Doria said the scammers know that catching them would be easy once the registration process is completed on April 26.

Napapansin natin nagdo-double time din ang mga scammer considering na alam naman natin na doon sa registration natin ngayon is talagang minamadali na, he said.

PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. encouraged SIM card sellers to record and register the names of their buyers and check their IDs so they'll be able to help in reporting questionable users.

According to the Department of Information and Communications Technology, over 32 million SIMs were already registered as of February 12. This represents 18.97 percent of more than 168 million subscribers in the country.

Of the total registered SIMs, around 16 million are Smart users, around 13 million are Globe subscribers, and around 2 million are from DITO, CNN Philippines reported.

Those who have yet to register may do so through their service provider’s registration platform or through their booths.

Users only need to fill out the form, and submit a copy of a valid government ID, and a selfie for verification.

READ: What you need to know about the SIM Card Registration Act

SIMs that will not be registered will be deactivated.

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Sources: GMA News Online, CNN Philippines