As millions of Filipinos prepare to travel to their respective provinces for All Saints Day, GCash is urging the public to stay alert against online scams and fraud that may take advantage of the travel rush, distractions, and last-minute arrangements during the occasion.
With increased activity during the holidays, scammers may exploit the busy travel period through fraudulent promotions and deceptive messages. These schemes can put users at risk of losing money or compromising their account information. GCash continues to strengthen its security systems and empower users to recognize and avoid scams, particularly during peak travel periods.
“The safety of our users remains top priority. GCash continues to strengthen its systems and empower users to recognize and avoid scams, especially during peak travel periods.” said Miguel Geronilla, GCash Chief Information Security Officer.
To help users identify potential threats, GCash shares the tell-tale signs of some of the most common scams to watch out for during Undas.
Spoofing
Links sent through SMS or messenger applications may lead to fake websites designed to steal login credentials. Malicious QR codes can also redirect users to fraudulent payment portals. During Undas, when messaging activity increases, even seemingly authentic messages can hide these threats. Users are advised to remain extra vigilant when receiving suspicious messages, links, or QR codes.
Thread hijacking
Authorities have reported scam messages appearing inside legitimate SMS conversation threads, making them look authentic. This tactic makes it more difficult for users to distinguish fraudulent messages from legitimate communications.
This underscores why users should never trust a sender’s name alone. GCash reminds users to always double-check and verify messages before sending money or making payments.
Activate In-app OTP
Fraudsters may pose as GCash agents offering supposed account verification services or cashback promotions. GCash reminds users that the company will never ask for their MPIN, OTP, or personal details.
For added protection, users are encouraged to activate in-app OTP. This feature generates one-time passwords directly inside the GCash app instead of relying on SMS.
GCash also reminds the public that it will never send links through SMS, email, or chat applications. Users should only transact through the official GCash app or verified GCash channels on Facebook and Messenger.
Take charge of your account security with GCash Security Center
The new in-app GCash Security Center gives users direct control over protecting their accounts, funds, and transactions against scams, fraud, and unauthorized access. The centralized hub features several user-controlled safeguards designed to help users secure their accounts and manage their transactions.
One of these features is Lock My Account, which allows users to immediately freeze their accounts and block outgoing transactions even if their phones are lost or compromised.
Another safeguard is Money Lock via GSave, which secures funds by separating them from the money available for everyday transactions. This feature provides users with a way to keep their funds separate from their regular transaction balance.
The Security Center also includes the Subscription Center, which enables users to review and disconnect merchants or applications linked to their accounts to prevent unwanted future payments.
Through these features, the GCash Security Center provides users with direct access to account protection tools that help address scams, fraud, and unauthorized access.
Take advantage of scam protection insurance
Because fraudsters attempt to exploit users’ vulnerabilities, GCash users can add another layer of financial protection by availing of Scam Protection Insurance through GInsure.
Underwritten by CHUBB Philippines, the policy provides coverage of up to ₱15,000 for eligible losses arising from covered scams, including social engineering, account takeover, and online shopping fraud.
For as low as ₱20 per month, eligible users can gain additional financial protection through the new auto-renew feature. This provides added peace of mind against covered fraudulent transactions, subject to the policy’s terms and conditions.
GCash also clarifies that GInsure Scam Protection Insurance is an insurance policy. Money lost through covered scam incidents is paid by the insurance underwriter and is not taken from the GCash wallet of the recipient.
Report and stay informed
Users who think they have received a spoofed message or encountered a phishing attempt are advised to report it immediately through the Help Center in the GCash app. GCash security teams continuously monitor and act on reported scams to protect users.
GCash users may also report suspected fraudulent activities through the official GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by messaging Gigi with the statement, “I want to report a scam.” Customers can also contact the official GCash hotline at 2882 for inquiries and other concerns.
By staying informed and alert, travelers can protect themselves from fraud and focus on spending time with their families this Undas.
For more information, visit https://www.gcash.com.
