In the recent past, text scammers would claim to be an OFW relative using their new roaming number and ask for prepaid load, or pretend to mis-send load credits and ask you to return them. While we still get our share of text scams from time to time, a lot of us already associate these messages with fraud and simply ignore them.

But as the use of e-wallets and online payment channels have become increasingly popular and indispensable, scams have evolved to be much more sophisticated. A common scam is done through phishing, wherein a fraudster gathers personal information like MPINs and OTPs, and uses this to gain access to accounts and steal the funds of the user.

Targeting users of leading e-wallet platforms, phishing scams happen not just through text messages, but also through call and social media platforms. While trusted financial institutions such as GCash double up on their security measures through security features such as DoubleSafe Face ID against cybercrimes, it is also helpful to be aware of new scams, how they work, and warning signs to catch them early. Here are common phishing scams e-wallet users should look out for:

• ‘Magtop-up para sa online gambling’ phishing scam

It’s very tempting to earn extra income while having fun, but that could be the opposite if you find yourself a victim of scammers that pose as online gambling sites. This phishing scam involves fraudsters leading players to a non-PAGCOR licensed gaming provider, where they will be asked to ‘top-up’ using a fake GCash portal, often using the same layout, color and logos, to retrieve credentials and access the victim’s account. 

How do you spot this? 

When you create an account with suspicious gambling sites, you will be given the option to use  your GCash account so you could top up your account. You will be redirected to a fake website that looks like a GCash portal, and will be prompted to enter your mobile number, OTP and MPIN. Once you’ve provided your information, hackers will now be able to access your account.

How could you stop this?

When asked to link your GCash account, always check the URL or name of the link to make sure you are on the GCash portal. Legitimate GCash portals begin in https:// and only end in ‘gcash.com’ while suspicious portals may have a series of numbers in the beginning, extra characters, and have misspelled words (ex. Gccash vs GCash). 

 

When requesting an OTP, always read the SMS to make sure you are not unknowingly linking a foreign device to your account. Never share your MPIN and OTP to anyone, including suspicious online gaming sites.

• ‘Nakahold ang account mo’ phishing scam
  
  

  

While there are scams that exploit different forms of entertainment, there are also those that cause panic and simulate emergency situations. The ‘Nakahold ang account mo’ phishing scam involves fraudsters pretending to be from legitimate financial institutions and making up negative consequences to encourage users into immediately providing their sensitive information.

How do you spot this? 

The fraudster will contact you, either through a phone call or social media platforms, and will claim to be a GCash employee, telling you that your account is on hold or frozen. They will then tell you that you can only have your account activated by sharing your MPIN and OTP. Once they have this information, they can gain access to your account and steal your funds. 

How could you stop this?

GCash will never ask you to activate your account through a phone call or through messaging applications. All transactions are only done through the official GCash app, including resolving concerns related to your account.

If a notice feels rushed, it’s most likely a phishing scam! Check your account through the GCash app first to confirm if it is indeed on hold and don’t share your MPIN and OTP to anyone – even those who claim to be from GCash. Remember that GCash will never ask these details from you.. 

• ‘Nanalo ka ng prize!’ Phishing Scam

Remember those earlier text scams telling potential victims that they've won a raffle and asking them to send a processing fee to be able to claim a prize? Just like this, a third phishing scam also notifies potential victims that they’ve won prizes to a GCash raffle they did not join. However, instead of asking them for a fee, this involves using a seemingly legitimate link to gain your credentials and access your account. 

How do you spot this? 

The fraudster, pretending to be from GCash, will send you an SMS or email saying you’ve won a reward, cashback or prize. You will be directed to click a link to claim the prize, leading to a fake website that looks like a GCash portal. Once you enter your mobile number, MPIN and OTP, your account can now be accessed by the cyber criminals.

How could you stop this?

Remember that GCash will never send links via SMS, email and messaging apps and all legitimate rewards and promos will only be communicated through the official GCash app, so never click on links and never share your MPIN and OTP to anyone. Always make it a habit to check any SMS or email you receive. Any communication from an unexpected or unfamiliar sender with an offer that’s too good to be true is usually a phishing scam.

Cybercriminals will continuously find ways to become more creative with their tactics and remain unsuspicious and realistic. Even if you might think you are not worthy of being the target of online predators, being a technology user will always put you as a potential target of any attack, especially if you’re one of the millions of user base of a leading e-wallet app like GCash. 

Fortunately, you have one of the best defenses against any phishing scam: you. Now that you are aware of how common phishing scams work, doing your part to protect your e-wallet account only takes a simple action: Do not ever share your MPIN and OTP.

If you encounter phishing scams and fraudulent activities targeting your GCash account, you may report by visiting the official GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com/hc/en-us  or messaging Gigi on the website and typing, “I want to report a scam.”

• Cats that are kept indoors are not susceptible to parasite infections and do not require regular veterinary visits.
• Cats only require treatment when they are infected with parasites. Preventive treatment is not necessary.
• Parasite infections are self-limiting and do not cause serious health issues.
• Removal of ticks and fleas can be effectively managed with parasite prevention shampoos alone.

The 7-track release also features the Gloc 9-assisted track “TAKAS”

After dropping ethereal tunes that capture the struggles of youth in the most genuinely honest way, Filipino recording artist LOIR is now ready to open up old wounds and deliver an unsparing narration of her teenage life in her debut EP, Chapters, out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The 7-track EP, which exhibits a knack for confessional songwriting and tender, spacey production, reflects emotional maturity beyond her years. In moments when the soulful newcomer needed some rescuing, she wasn’t afraid to examine her decisions in life with both sides of the coin: never consumed by ego, but instead, looking for answers with a hopeful, open mind.

“Chapters represent the ups and downs of my life,” the young singer-songwriter explains. “I’ve learned along the way that sometimes, it’s okay to pause and embrace defeat. But while there’s beauty in acceptance, I’ve always made it a point to celebrate my imperfections and use it as a motivating factor to keep going. Sharing my story is my own way of healing.”

The release of her new EP Chapters is accompanied by the focus track “TAKAS,” featuring Filipino hip-hop icon Gloc-9. “From the beat to the melody, pure devastation is felt at every part, desperately clinging to that hope that might change the heart,” she describes the song. Buoyed by dramatic strings and intricately powerful arrangements, the ethereal track is LOIR’s way of finding escape in a world troubled by uncertainty and not knowing what lies ahead.

Aside from “TAKAS,” the EP shines just as bright with songs that communicate storytelling in particularly nuanced ways.

Her debut record includes “PANAGINIP,” featuring rapper Melrhyme, and “UMAGA,” which are both crossover jams with hit potential. The stripped-down ballad “MAMA” is LOIR at her most vulnerable, asking big questions about life’s purpose and her conflicting sense of direction. And then there’s “PAHIYOM,” which shows just how charismatic LOIR can be as both an interpreter and a storyteller.

Despite its introspective themes, the production always stands out with refreshing ideas, thanks to contributions by urban/R&B collaborators such as Goodson, Havo and Shaq.

LOIR’s new EP, Chapters, is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

The Castaway Music Festival has become renowned in the province of Bulacan for its ability to captivate music enthusiasts of all ages, drawing them in with its impressive lineup of talented performers from the local music scene. Looking back at the 2019 edition, the festival showcased the very best of Philippine OPM bands, featuring unforgettable performances by revered acts like Side A, the legendary rock band True Faith, and the soulful group Freestyle. This year's festival followed suit, presenting a diverse lineup that included both rising stars and beloved favorites. Artists such as Leona and Similar Sky graced the festival's stage, leaving the audience awestruck with their extraordinary talent. 

Completing the formidable lineup for this year's Castaway Music Fest was the explosive alternative rock band Sandiwa, whose raw energy resounded through the venue, leaving everyone craving for more. 

Beyond the captivating performances, the Castaway Music Festival also brought to life an immersive sensory experience, combining an unparalleled sound system, breathtaking light displays, and awe-inspiring stage effects. The atmosphere buzzed with an electrifying energy that permeated through the crowd, amplifying the overall experience and taking it to new and unparalleled heights. 

Dubbed one of SM's most exciting events, the Castaway Music Festival highlights the Philippines' best music artists in a touring concert. This festival, honored with the 2018 Silver Award for Innovation in Entertainment Events at the prestigious Asia Pacific Stevie Awards, captivates the heart of North Luzon as it traverses 11 selected SM Supermalls, with a grand culmination at SM City Baliwag. 

Castaway is one of the many exciting activities in SM North Luzon malls, held as a way of thanking shoppers. While creating moments of connection with customers, it also aims to foster patronage of Filipino music. 

At the request of fans, Curb | Word Entertainment singer, songwriter and pop artist Sarah Reeves debuts viral hit “Get Back Your Fight,” available today (6/23) — listen HERE. The blazing track marks the first song written and produced solely by Reeves. The music video premiered on Wonderland, a global magazine highlighting the best new and established talent across pop culture — watch it HERE.

After posting a reel of her demoing the first verse and chorus of the honest, theatrical selection that gives listeners a glimpse into Reeves’ mental health journey, the songstress garnered 25K new followers on social media in a month’s time. As fans gave the clip legs, the in-demand lyricist was challenged to complete the song that reveals her slapping on a fake smile, stuffing down her issues, and letting depression wreak havoc on her psyche. “Get Back Your Fight” finds the multifaceted artist in the ring, throwing a calculated one-two punch at fear and reassuring listeners they’re not alone in the struggle.

“I’ve done a lot of digging deep and healing this year, but sometimes I surprise myself when something comes up that trigger me or takes me back a few steps. It’s discouraging, but at the same time, I never want to be afraid to confront those issues that are deeply rooted in my heart. Let’s keep growing, keep healing; and don’t be too hard on yourself when you mess up. No hurt is ever wasted. We’re all in this together. Be kind to one another,” Reeves encourages fans, who continue to share her reels of “Get Back Your Fight.” “I’m so glad this song is helping and connecting with so many of you.”

“Get Back Your Fight” is the third in a series of new releases from Reeves this year, following nostalgia-laced offering “Jealousy” and romantic, first dance-worthy “Wanna Be Here,” which was featured in Hallmark Channel’s original movie, A Winning Team, this spring. Reeves will continue sharing new music in the months to come, leading up to a new full-length LP expected this fall.

Stream or purchase “Get Back Your Fight” HERE.

From Sarah’s forthcoming album “Best Days” Pre-save HERE: