The Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) arrested a security guard in Pasay City for allegedly selling an IMSI catcher, also known as a text blaster, which was reportedly used in scamming activities by a former Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub.
PNP-ACG Chief PBGen. Bernard Yang reported that the male suspect was offering the high-tech device for sale on Facebook, claiming to have bought it from an individual linked to a scam hub.
In an interview at Camp Crame on Friday, Yang confirmed that this was the first time the ACG had recovered the kind of equipment from a POGO operation.
The IMSI catcher is capable of sending text blasts within a 500-meter radius, a feature that is reportedly used for phishing activities.
Meanwhile, the PNP-ACG raised concerns that other similar devices might be circulating, originating from dismantled POGOs.
The arrested security guard will face charges for violating the Data Privacy Act, NTC Law, and the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
