Philippines Scams: Online, Job & Investment Fraud Guide
Common scams in the Philippines and how to report to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group and your bank.
Emergency number: 911 — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
The Philippines sees widespread text (smishing) scams, online job and task scams, investment and crypto fraud, and e-wallet phishing. This guide outlines the main scams and how to report to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, the NBI, and your bank or e-wallet provider.
Common scams
- Smishing (job offers, prizes, parcel fees)
- Online job and task scams
- Investment and crypto fraud
- E-wallet and bank phishing
Tourist-specific scams
- Overcharging taxis
- Fake tour operators
- Counterfeit goods
Online shopping scams
- E-wallet (GCash-style) phishing
- Marketplace non-delivery
- Fake shopping pages
Job scams
- Task scams
- Fake overseas employment offers
- Reshipping and mule recruitment
Romance scams
- Dating-app romance and crypto grooming
Investment scams
- Fake trading platforms
- Ponzi-style 'paluwagan' investment scams
How to report a scam here
- Contact your bank or e-wallet provider immediately
- Report to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (pnpacg.ph)
- Report to the NBI Cybercrime Division
Local reporting & protection links
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Bank & payment guidance
Contact your bank or e-wallet provider's official support immediately to report and attempt to freeze transactions. Never share OTPs or e-wallet PINs — no legitimate provider asks for them.
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot all messages, profiles, websites and payment pages
- Save transaction references, account numbers and crypto wallet addresses
- Keep emails with full headers where possible
- Note dates, times, names and phone numbers used
Frequently asked questions
Should I ever share my e-wallet OTP?
Never. One-time passwords and PINs are for you alone. Anyone asking you to share an OTP — including 'support' or a 'buyer' — is trying to take over your account or steal funds.
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance