The internet has provided numerous opportunities for people, but it has also become a breeding ground for scams. The Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) reported a significant increase in cybercrime incidents, with 4,469 cases recorded from January to March 2024. This marks a 21.84% increase from the 3,668 incidents reported in the fourth quarter of 2023. Among these, online selling scams were the most prevalent, with 990 cases, followed by 319 investment scams and 309 debit/credit card fraud cases.

Given the rising threat of online scams, it's essential to remain vigilant. Here are some tips to protect yourself:

Be Alert at All Times

Scammers are often skilled at "sweet-talking" and making offers that seem too good to be true. They know how to gain trust quickly, making it easier to deceive people. Always be skeptical of deals that seem unusually favorable.

Know Who You're Dealing With

Take the time to research the person or entity you're engaging with. Ask for verified identifications or social media accounts. Be cautious of accounts with little to no content or those created recently, as they may be scams.

Be Mindful of Requests for Money or Personal Information

Never send money or provide credit card details and OTPs (one-time passwords) for suspicious reasons. Scammers may pressure you to act quickly by threatening to withdraw from a deal if you don't comply.

Bring a Buddy When Viewing Properties

Having someone accompany you during property viewings or trippings provides extra security and peace of mind. It's always safer to have someone with you in case of unexpected situations.

Stay vigilant and cautious in your online activities to avoid falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated schemes.

Help us maintain our good community here on OnePropertee. If you encounter suspicious properties, users, or leads, please report them to us. You can also submit your reports through the OnePropertee Support.

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Source: https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1222307