Globe Collaborates with Government to Curb Entry of Spoofing Devices in PH

 

In a bid to address the issue of spoofing at its roots, Globe has embarked on a collaborative initiative with law enforcement agencies to prevent the importation of devices that are instrumental in this emerging fraudulent scheme.

Globe’s General Counsel, Atty. Froilan Castelo, emphasized the necessity of bolstering enforcement measures to curb instances of spoofing. In these incidents, fraudsters dispatch malicious texts to SIMs within a specific region, masquerading as legitimate sender IDs using devices known as international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) catchers.

These compact devices, imported into the Philippines either fully assembled or in parts for subsequent assembly, are then exploited for illicit activities. IMSI catchers can be transported on foot or in vehicles to target SIMs within a designated area, compelling them to downgrade to 2G, the antiquated cellular network technology for voice calls and texts. Fraudsters can then dispatch malicious SMS to phones connected to their counterfeit cell tower, making them appear legitimate.

“We are liaising with the government to inhibit the importation and utilization of IMSI catchers, which are the primary instruments facilitating these security infringements. We require more vigorous enforcement of the law pertaining to spoofing and the spread of this unlawful equipment,” stated Castelo.

He highlighted the urgency of taking action, given the escalating number of spoofing incidents where fraudsters mimic legitimate and trusted sender IDs, making it challenging for mobile users to discern that they are being deceived.

“SMS spoofing is already deemed illegal under the Cybercrime Prevention Act. Hence, we are proactively coordinating with law enforcement agencies to ensure the apprehension of these spoofers,” added Castelo.

As Globe has intensified its clampdown on scam and spam SMS through stricter blocking, including the filtering out of all person-to-person SMS with links and the imposition of rigorous regulations on app-to-person SMS with URLs, reports of spoofing have surged among mobile phone users.

In response to these spoofing incidents, Globe has ceased the use of clickable links in its official customer advisories, aiding mobile users in differentiating between legitimate and spoofed SMS more effectively.

Globe urges the public to stay alert and report any suspicious messages to their service provider. The company also underscores the significance of adhering to best practices for digital security, such as refraining from clicking on links from unfamiliar sources, never divulging personal information via SMS, and staying updated on the latest scam strategies.

“Our customers are once again reminded to exercise extreme caution when receiving unsolicited messages. Do not be lured by messages that tempt you with offers that seem too good to be true. Never click on SMS links or disclose your personal information on unverified platforms,” advised Anton Bonifacio, Chief Information Security Officer at Globe.

In addition to its endeavors in combating spoofing, Globe persists in educating its customers on how to safeguard themselves from various types of digital fraud. Its extensive public awareness campaigns aim to equip individuals with the knowledge to identify and respond appropriately to potential threats.

FAQs

1. What is spoofing? Spoofing is a fraudulent practice where fraudsters send malicious texts to SIMs in a particular area, appearing as legitimate sender IDs using devices called the international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) catcher.

2. What is an IMSI catcher? An IMSI catcher is a device that can be carried around to target SIMs in a certain area and force them to downgrade to 2G, the old cellular network technology for voice calls and texts. Fraudsters can then send malicious SMS to phones connected to their fake cell tower, making them appear legitimate.

3. What is Globe doing to combat spoofing? Globe is working with the government to prevent the importation and use of IMSI catchers. They have also tightened the noose on scam and spam SMS through stricter blocking, including filtering out all person-to-person SMS with links and enforcing stringent regulations on app-to-person SMS with URLs.

4. What can I do to protect myself from spoofing? Avoid clicking on links from unknown sources, never share personal information via SMS, and stay informed about the latest scam tactics. If you receive any suspicious messages, report them to your service provider immediately.