PNP Ramps Up Campaign Against Abusive Online Lending Platforms
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is significantly intensifying its campaign against abusive online lending platforms following a sharp increase in complaints involving harassment and data privacy violations of borrowers. In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. revealed that authorities have documented more than 47,400 complaints against online lending firms since 2024.
Alarming Rise in Complaints and Harassment Tactics
Borrowers have reported a range of distressing tactics, including threats, public shaming, and unauthorized access to personal contact lists. General Nartatez emphasized that these practices are unacceptable and warrant immediate police intervention. "We have documented cases where photos were manipulated to humiliate and intimidate borrowers. This is unacceptable and warrants police intervention," Nartatez stated firmly.
He stressed that legitimate business operations should never involve harassment or coercion, warning that such behaviors clearly point to criminal activity. Data from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) supports this concern, showing 47,446 complaints filed against online lending firms from August 2024 to January 2026.
Coordinated Law Enforcement Response
In response to this surge, Nartatez has ordered the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to intensify efforts to track down and build strong cases against operators involved in online harassment, privacy breaches, and other cybercrime offenses. The PNP is actively coordinating with key agencies including the PAOCC, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the National Privacy Commission (NPC) to identify and take decisive action against violators.
Public Advisory and Safety Measures
General Nartatez also issued a crucial public advisory, urging citizens to exercise extreme caution and deal only with lenders that are properly registered with the SEC. He provided specific guidance for victims of harassment, advising them to document all evidence meticulously, including screenshots and messages, and to report incidents immediately to the nearest police station or the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group.
"Do not panic and avoid engaging with threats. Save all evidence and report the incident right away," he emphasized, highlighting the importance of prompt action to combat these cybercrimes effectively.
