The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) is urging the public to remain vigilant online as cyber threats are on the rise during the Christmas season. With an increase in online shopping, digital payments, and social media use, scammers are exploiting this situation through AI-generated deepfakes, fraudulent investment offers, and scam communications that impersonate trusted contacts.
CICC’s acting Executive Director, Undersecretary Aboy Paraiso, mentioned efforts to develop real-time detection of deepfake content to eliminate harmful posts more swiftly. He also highlighted new scam tactics involving malicious charging cables, text-sending devices, and tools aimed at e-wallets.
To report any suspicious activity, the public can reach the 1326 anti-scam hotline, which processes reports within 24 hours. Approximately 16,000 cybercrime reports have been recorded by the hotline from 2024 to 2025.
As the holiday season progresses, CICC advises everyone to verify information, refrain from clicking on unknown links, and remain cautious of offers that seem excessively enticing.
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