The country’s leading finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, GCash, is reminding users to stay vigilant and take simple yet meaningful steps to protect themselves from scams and fraud this Holy Week.
As more users go online, GCash encourages everyone to remain vigilant—particularly against scams that take advantage of vulnerable users, as well as government subsidy payouts, such as the fuel subsidy program of LTFRB and the DSWD.
GCash shares simple steps to help users stay #GSafeTayo:
- Be aware of fake fuel vouchers from “DSWD” or any government agency
Scammers exploit any crisis with spoofing and phishing scams. For instance, users may receive text messages that appear to come from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), asking them to claim an “e-fuel voucher” by clicking a link that leads to a phishing website. The DSWD has confirmed these are scams. They will never distribute assistance through unsolicited texts containing clickable links.
- Watch out for spoofed messages and suspicious links
Never click links sent via SMS or third-party messaging apps. Scams can arrive via SMS, email, or chat apps. Be wary of “phishing” traps, such as “free” offers.
- Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
Increasingly sophisticated tactics are compromising even the most vigilant users. Malicious hotspots in high-traffic areas like airports can silently intercept sensitive data; therefore, refrain from accessing financial accounts or entering credentials while on public connections.
- Be alert against fake pages and impersonators
Some spoofing attempts come from fake GCash Facebook pages or Messenger accounts designed to look real. Check for the verified blue checkmark and report suspicious accounts. The only official page is GCash Official.
Follow additional safety practices
- Ignore unexpected calls or meeting invites about account or ID verification. If pressured to act fast, hang up or decline immediately.
- Never share your OTP, MPIN, passwords, or screen during logins or transactions.
- Do not download apps from links sent by email or text: use the official Apple App Store, Google Play, or Huawei AppGallery.
Report suspicious activity and stay informed
GCash users can report suspected scams through the GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com by chatting with Gigi and selecting “I want to report a scam”, or by calling the official GCash hotline at 2882.
Users may also report incidents to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group at (02) 8414-1560 / 0998-598-8116 or [email protected], and to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) via hotline 1326, mobile 0991-481-4225, or [email protected].
GCash actively monitors and blocks suspicious activity, takes down reported scam links and accounts, and works closely with law enforcement and government agencies to protect the public.
For more information and updates on cybersecurity, visit the PNP ACG Facebook Page and the GCash website at https://www.gcash.com.
The GCash app is available for free on Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or Huawei App Gallery. For safety reminders and updates, visit the official Facebook page at GCash Official.
