The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) raided an alleged scam hub in Kawit, Cavite, that is believed to be operated by foreign nationals.
NBI Director Jaime Santiago reported that the NBI received information about several houses in Grand Centennial Homes, Kawit, Cavite, being used as scam hubs.
These houses contain computers and other electronic devices involved in global scamming activities, operated by Filipinos under the control of foreign nationals.
On August 9, the NBI-Cybercrime Division operatives, local police, and the Grand Centennial Subdivision Homeowners Association executed search warrants on four houses at the targeted location.
Authorities caught several individuals using electronic devices, including desktops, laptops, and cellphones, with scam scripts designed to deceive people into sharing sensitive information or investing money.
CCD operatives found "scam showrooms" with live desktop computers displaying counterfeit luxury items and high-end products, designed to deceive potential victims into believing they were authentic.
Five foreign nationals were arrested, three of them are Chinese and two are Malaysians.
“These 24 Filipinos are working with them para mag-commit ng romance scam, investment scam, crypto scam, impersonation scam, and credit credential stuffing,” Santiago said during a press briefing on Tuesday.
Controlled viewing and on-site forensic examinations of the devices revealed that the perpetrators violated RA No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012) and RA No. 12010 (Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act).
Santiago emphasized the NBI’s ongoing commitment to dismantling these criminal networks run by foreign nationals who exploit Filipinos for their illegal activities.
