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GCash urges vigilance against online scams and fraud this Holy Week

by Contributor
written by Contributor

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:

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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

  1. Ignore unexpected calls or meeting invites about account or ID verification. If pressured to act fast, hang up or decline immediately.
  2. Never share your OTP, MPIN, passwords, or screen during logins or transactions.
  3. 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 acg@pnp.gov.ph, and to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) via hotline 1326, mobile 0991-481-4225, or report@cicc.gov.ph.

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.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.  GCash reminds the public that online safety remains a shared responsibility. Enjoy the break, and stay alert to have a peaceful and a #GSafeTayo Holy Week.

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GCash launches In-App OTPs to strengthen security against phishing scams and fraud

by Contributor
written by Contributor

GCash users urged to turn on push notification settings to make their app transactions safe and secure

GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance superapp and largest cashless ecosystem, is rolling out its newest security feature, In-App OTPs (One-Time Passwords). By the first quarter of 2026, users will receive their OTPs directly via secure push notifications within the GCash app instead of SMS. For years, SMS-based OTPs have been targeted by scammers as a means of accessing user accounts. The switch to In-App OTPs is an important step toward addressing these vulnerabilities. By sending OTP requests directly to the user’s authenticated GCash app, GCash ensures that only the intended users can receive and use the unique OTPs, protecting them from unauthorized access.

Simple steps to follow for Android and iOS phone users to switch to the safe, secure & newly-upgraded in-App One-Time-Passwords (OTPs)

Instant, one-tap authentication also removes the need to switch apps, type codes, or wait for text messages to arrive, resulting in faster transactions and removing exposure to SMS OTPs that scammers and fraudsters can exploit.

“Our upgrade to In-App OTPs is a strategic move to put an end to phishable SMS OTPs. We will shift users to instant, GCash app-verified authentication, to increase the security of their daily transactions,” said Miguel Geronilla, Chief Information Security Officer of GCash.

The introduction of In-App OTPs is part of the broader strategy of GCash to enhance security through Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), a well-established industry standard that adds multiple layers of protection when accessing an account. MFA greatly reduces the risk of account takeovers, even if passwords or MPINs are compromised.

GCash has consistently invested in stronger protection systems, including Know-Your-Customer (KYC) verification and Facial Recognition verification (Double Safe). In-App OTPs build on these existing measures, enhancing security without adding unnecessary friction to the user experience.

In-App OTPs reflect commitment of GCash to providing secure, seamless financial services for its millions of users and set a new benchmark for digital finance security in the Philippines.

For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

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Cebu Pacific statement on cancelled bookings due to use of fraudulent credit cards

by Contributor
written by Contributor

Cebu Pacific has cancelled bookings that were purchased using fraudulent credit cards.

Following an investigation, the airline determined that certain individuals used stolen or unauthorized credit cards to book Cebu Pacific flights, which were subsequently converted into Travel Funds. These Travel Funds were then used to illegally resell flights through unauthorized channels.

The individuals involved were found to be offering Cebu Pacific flights for sale through the following Facebook groups:

Cebu Pacific is coordinating closely with authorities to continue investigating groups engaged in the illegal sale of Cebu Pacific flights on social media platforms and to protect passengers from fraudulent activities.

Passengers affected by the cancelled bookings have been sent notifications and are advised to book new flights through www.cebupacificair.com using a valid and authorized form of payment should they wish to proceed with their travel plans.

Cebu Pacific strongly reminds all passengers to book their flights only through CEB’s official website, mobile app, or accredited travel partners to ensure access to the airline’s guaranteed lowest fares and legitimate booking services. 

Passengers are strongly advised against transacting with unauthorized sellers, as doing so may result in invalid or incomplete bookings, additional charges, or disrupted travel plans. Only CEB’s official channels and affiliated travel agencies are authorized to sell genuine CEB flights. 

Customers who transact through unauthorized channels and agents may not be able to: 

  • Receive a complete booking and ticket due to incorrect fares   
  • Do online check-in
  • Rebook  
    Refund  
  • Add bags or meals  

To book your flights with CEB, you may directly visit www.cebupacificair.com or download our official mobile app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

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