By Benjamin Pulta
MANILA – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Monday warned the public against schemes that solicit sponsorships and donations under the guise of legitimate non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
In a news release, the NBI said criminal syndicates impersonate government officials and prominent personalities and falsely claim affiliation with recognized NGOs.
“The public is particularly cautioned against the use of caller ID spoofing technology, a method that enables perpetrators to manipulate phone numbers and make calls or messages appear as though they originate from legitimate and registered contact numbers of known officials or personalities,” the NBI said.
“In certain instances, even return calls may connect to seemingly legitimate lines, further complicating verification and increasing the risk of deception,” it added.
The NBI said the common indicators of the fraudulent activity include unsolicited communication indicating that the recipient has been “selected” as a sponsor or donor; imposition of urgency or pressure to remit funds immediately; requests for payments to be transferred to personal or unofficial accounts; and absence of formal written requests or documentation on official letterhead.
The NBI advised the public to exercise heightened vigilance and to refrain from transferring money based solely on phone calls, messages, or online communications, regardless of how authentic the source may appear.
“All solicitations must be independently verified through official and trusted channels,” it said.
The public is encouraged to directly contact the concerned official or organization using verified contact details not provided by the soliciting party.
The prospective donor must also require formal documentation, including proof of registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission or the Department of Social Welfare and Development, where applicable.
“These syndicates are deliberately exploiting the public’s trust in government officials and respected personalities. We remind everyone that in today’s digital environment, even legitimate-looking numbers and identities can be manipulated,” NBI Director Melvin Matibag said.
“Vigilance is our first line of defense — verify first before you give. The NBI will relentlessly pursue and hold accountable those who prey on the goodwill of our people,” he added.
Individuals who believe they have been targeted or victimized by such schemes are urged to immediately report the matter to the NBI Cybercrime Division at (02) 8523-8231, local 3724, or cybercrimedivision24@gmail.com.
The NBI said perpetrators of such acts shall be dealt with in accordance with the law and may be held liable under Republic Act No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act), Revised Penal Code provisions on estafa, and other relevant laws. (PNA)
