Smart warns against fake ‘donation’ scam

PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) warns customers about solicitations being sent through online messaging platforms and over-the-top (OTT) apps. Smart has received reports about unscrupulous individuals pretending to be company executives or representatives of organizations asking for donations for made-up or nonexistent relief operations. The scammers would then send payment QR codes where potential victims are supposed to send their ‘donations’ to.
 
Smart has been actively blocking from its network mobile numbers found to be scammers, to further protect customers. It is also working closely with digital payment platforms and concerned government agencies to investigate reported incidents and aid authorities in the prosecution of personalities behind this scheme.
 
Smart urges customers to #BeCyberSmart and double-check the authenticity of senders, whenever requests of this nature are received. It may be best to verify such requests with the person by calling him or her through the mobile number saved in your devices. When possible, initiate a video call with your contact for confirmation. You can also check the official online pages of the organization to confirm such activities.
 
If you have received similar messages, report them to Smart’s HULISCAM portal – https://smart.com.ph/huliscam. Take note of the sender’s mobile number, date message was received, and the actual message.
 
Customers may also report cyber threats and fraudulent activities to Smart’s verified and official social media pages – Smart Communications on Facebook and @SmartCares on X — or call hotline *888.