The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a renewed and urgent warning to the public regarding the escalating threat posed by cryptocurrency and various online investment scams. These fraudulent schemes continue to ensnare a growing number of Filipinos, leading to significant financial losses.
Alarming Statistics on Investment Fraud
According to official data released by the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), a total of 311 investment scam cases were reported across the nation from January 1 to December 31, 2025. Notably, 12 of these documented cases specifically involved cryptocurrency-related fraudulent operations, highlighting a concerning trend within the digital finance space.
Common Tactics Employed by Scammers
Authorities detailed the typical modus operandi used by these criminals. Scammers often attract victims by promising unrealistically high and guaranteed returns on investments. In many instances, they also encourage participants to recruit additional investors, creating a pyramid-like structure. To build initial trust and credibility, fraudsters may permit small, early withdrawals. However, this is merely a tactic, as they eventually block all access to accounts and earnings, resulting in the permanent and total loss of the invested capital.
Official Statement from PNP Leadership
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. strongly urged citizens to exercise extreme caution when engaging with any online investment platform. "Ang bawat Pilipino ay may karapatan na maprotektahan ang kanilang pinaghirapang pera. Kaya naman hinihikayat namin ang lahat na maging mapanuri at huwag basta-basta magtiwala sa mga online platform na nag-aalok ng sobrang taas na kita," Nartatez emphasized. (Every Filipino has the right to have their hard-earned money protected. That is why we encourage everyone to be vigilant and not to easily trust online platforms that offer extremely high returns.)
He further advised the public to report any suspicious financial activity immediately to the nearest police station. The General underscored that the risks extend beyond mere monetary loss. "Hindi lang pera ang nakataya kundi ang inyong seguridad. Mas mainam ang magtanong at mag-verify bago mag-invest upang mapigilan ang mga scammer at mapanatili ang tiwala sa online financial transactions," said Nartatez. (Not only your money is at stake, but also your security. It is better to ask questions and verify first before investing to prevent scammers and maintain trust in online financial transactions.)
Key Safety Guidelines from Authorities
The PNP provided clear safety guidelines for the public:
- Verify Legitimacy: Thoroughly check the registration and legitimacy of any online investment or cryptocurrency platform before committing any funds.
- Avoid Guarantees: Be highly skeptical of offers that guarantee unusually high returns with little to no risk.
- Protect Information: Never share personal banking details, account passwords, or sensitive financial information online with unverified entities.
- Heed Warnings: Pay attention to and do not ignore common red flags and warning signs of potential fraud.
Proactive Measures and Public Awareness
Authorities also encouraged Filipinos to stay informed about evolving scam tactics, ask critical questions, and educate family members, especially the elderly and less tech-savvy, about these common online threats to prevent further victimization.
The PNP, through its Anti-Cybercrime Group, reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying public awareness campaigns and providing necessary guidance. These efforts aim to empower Filipinos to safely navigate the expanding landscape of online financial opportunities and protect themselves from sophisticated cybercriminals.
