THE Philippine National Police (PNP) braces itself for possible cyberattacks to ensure the integrity and reliability of the government’s digital systems.
The move came following stern warning from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) against a potentially deleterious Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS), a type of cyberattacks expected to take place on Wednesday, Nov. 5.
PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. assured the public that the various police units, in collaboration with the DICT, are ready to implement counter-measures including strengthening the firewalls and integrity of the hardware and software systems being used by the PNP.
“We have different systems and in fact, we’ve been victims of that cyberattacks. Our data was compromised, especially in logistics, firearms, and others. And we are continuously protecting that,” Nartatez told reporters in a press briefing at Camp Crame, Quezon City.
He also said the PNP has intensified measures to secure both its hardware and software systems, as well as ensuring the integrity of personnel managing sensitive data.
“To protect our system, we do various activities like ensuring firewalls, ensuring the integrity of hardwares and even software. And even our people who use these systems, either they are the administrator or recipient of this data. So, there needs to be integrity there,” Nartatez explained.
The e-Warrant is among several vital digital systems that the PNP is securing against possible hacking.
It serves as a nationwide database for arrest warrants, allowing police to verify and act on cases in real time.
Furthermore, the PNP protects its Situation Report and Incident Recording System (SIRAS), as well as databases on firearms, explosives, and internal disciplinary cases under the Internal Disciplinary Mechanism Information System. (INVIS).
Nartatez said these interconnected systems hold critical and sensitive data essential to police operations, which is why the organization continues to strengthen their cybersecurity.
“We are continuously hardening our system. So that even if there is a cyberattack like that, we will be able to deny it.”
In the same press briefing, PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) chief Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang said the organization continues to strengthen its cybersecurity defenses.
“The PNP is in fact prepared for any possible cyberattack. We keep on reminding our units and personnel to always secure the different systems of the PNP,” said Yang.
The DICT earlier announced that it had detected possible attempts to launch Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks or traffic floods targeting various websites and networks.
The agency said it was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with other cybersecurity teams to prevent service disruptions.
The DICT said while there is no confirmation yet of any active breach, government agencies and the public are urged to remain cautious, regularly update passwords, and report suspicious online activities.
