#Globe reiterates its warning about a fraud scheme duping customers with spoofed messages supposedly from Globe Rewards.
Similar to an earlier modus, scammers are sending customers SMS via international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) catchers or fake cell towers claiming that their Globe Rewards points were expiring and that they should redeem the points via a provided link.
“We once again call on customers to be extra vigilant and not to click on any links in text messages that claim to be from Globe,” said Anton Bonifacio, Globe’s Chief Information Security Officer. “Globe does not send clickable links in its official advisories. These messages are not from us and are designed to steal your personal information,” he said.
In the latest detected scam, fraudsters are sending spoofed messages directing customers to a fraudulent website imitating Globe’s official Rewards platform. There, fraudsters ask users to share their sensitive information, including their address, and make them pay a fee.
Investigation by the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) showed that the phishing campaign’s IP address was traced to Romania and began on November 27, 2024. Globe is closely working with the CICC to address the matter.
Globe has long raised the alarm on spoofing via IMSI catchers– devices that capture mobile users within a limited radius to send malicious SMS. IMSI catchers, often carried by individuals or mounted on vehicles, force mobile phones in the vicinity to downgrade to the older 2G network. This allows fraudsters to send SMS from fake or impersonated numbers to devices connected to the rogue cell tower.
Since these spoofed messages bypass the Globe network entirely, they evade its advanced spam filters and detection systems. Instances of spoofing and other text-based scams, including those sent via over-the-top services and chat apps, are outside the control of telecom providers.
“As we continue to enhance security and protect both our customers and our network, scammers continue to evolve their tactics to target mobile users— many of which lie beyond Globe's direct control," said Bonifacio. "We strongly encourage our customers to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect themselves. Stay cautious and discerning,” said Bonifacio.
Here are some tips to protect yourself from spoofed SMS and phishing scams:
● Do not click on links in text messages that claim to be from Globe.
● Never share your personal information, such as your password, OTP, or credit card number, with anyone.
● Report suspicious SMS via Globe’s Stop Spam portal.
To learn more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.