The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it’s also a time when cybercriminals are on the prowl. PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) are reminding the public to be extra cautious when reading emails or messages, as online scams are expected to rise during this period.
Cybercriminals have become increasingly adept at creating emails that mimic legitimate ones, and they are now even using artificial intelligence (AI) to make their messages more convincing. These AI-crafted emails are designed to imitate the writing style of humans and often contain authentic-looking visual cues, making it difficult for victims to distinguish them from genuine messages from their banks or organizations.
Angel Redoble, FVP and Chief Information Security Officer at PLDT, Smart, and ePLDT, warns that AI-powered phishing messages are becoming more sophisticated. In an initial study conducted by cybersecurity awareness training service provider SoSafe, it was found that victims were more likely to fall for phishing attacks authored by AI.
To protect yourself from falling victim to scammers, Redoble stresses the importance of verifying the source of an email. Remembering the basic rule of not talking to strangers can go a long way in preventing cyberattacks. By exercising caution and scrutinizing every email before responding or clicking on any links, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
PLDT and Smart are committed to keeping their customers secure from cyberattacks. In the first 11 months of 2023 alone, the PLDT Group prevented almost 17 billion attempts to open malicious domains by blacklisting over 5 million URLs and links associated with phishing, spam, hoaxes, and other illegal activities. Additionally, they blocked over 60 million SMShing messages from reaching customers during the same period.
Smart has also taken action by blacklisting more than 290,000 mobile numbers involved in nefarious activities from its network between January and November 2023. If you receive a dubious or malicious message, Smart advises taking a screenshot and sending it to cybersecurityincidents@smart.com.ph. This email address can also be used to report other cybersecurity matters, such as phishing, vishing, and malicious domains.
The efforts of PLDT and Smart in detecting and blocking malicious messages, SIMs, and websites tied to fraudulent activities are part of a broader program to enhance the quality of customer experience and protect them from threats and cyberattacks. By prioritizing cybersecurity, PLDT and Smart aim to provide their customers with a safe and secure online environment.
As the holiday season approaches, it is crucial to remain vigilant and skeptical of any suspicious emails or messages. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, but by staying informed and adopting good cybersecurity practices, you can safeguard yourself from falling victim to their scams. Remember, scrutinize every email, verify the source, and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities. Stay safe online and enjoy a worry-free holiday season.
Source: The Manila Times
