We have seen the proliferation of phony offers and sinister stings this year, prompting the government to pass a law on SIM card registration for cell phones apart from instituting new procedures in the conduct of online commerce. This, however, has not totally eradicated the menace of cyberspace scams.
One recent hoax that victimized many unsuspecting Internet users was discovered a few weeks ago by the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA). This ingenious scheme uses Facebook and other popular social media platforms to illegally entice the public to make some money buying pieces of luggage and boxes filled with all sorts of personal effects that were left behind by passengers or unclaimed for some time now at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
The fake notice to sell these items looks genuine at first glance, because it uses authentic logos and trademarks of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The Facebook post says, “start of sales in 2023! From now on we will clear out the airport warehouse and sell luggage that have gone unchecked for six months. Ninoy Aquino Airport can dispose of these suitcases, organize a charity event and distribute the forgotten luggage for only P556.54." Those who answered the invitation lost some money from this deal because they were made to make a down payment to participate.
Another modus operandi that has a big potential in victimizing Filipinos, especially those abroad, concerns the business of sending Balikbayan boxes full of holiday gifts to their families in the Philippines. Various complaints have been received this season by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) about unscrupulous individuals, firms, and consolidators who engage in this business without the required registration from the government.
The DTI reminded the public especially overseas Filipinos who are based in the United States, Middle East, Japan, Hongkong, Australia, etc. to be vigilant when sending their balikbayan boxes this season. The department said senders should only deal with accredited Philippine counterparts/agents which could be verified in the agency’s website.
For those who do not know, the DTI also reminded the public that the following items are not allowed to be sent through Balikbayan boxes: currencies, checks, jewelries, firearms, ammunition and explosives, etc. The full contents of the Balikbayan box should also be declared.
Just like in the case of financial and investment scams, Filipinos should be wary of promises of very high returns from their transactions. In the case of sending Balikbayan boxes, customers should beware of exceptionally very low rates from people posing as representatives of consolidators.
It is reassuring that the DTI is rigidly implementing the accreditation of sea freight forwarders (SFF) as part of its mandate to protect consumers from fly-by-night or unaccredited companies and entities. Freight forwarders and firms found to be in violation of existing policies on Balikbayan boxes shall be penalized such as imposition of administrative fines, issuance of cease orders, or suspension of cancellation of accreditation pursuant to applicable DTI rules.
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