Globe Telecom on Saturday confirmed reports that its customers received deceptive texts from a sender ID claiming to be the telecom company.
In a statement, the telco giant said that its sender ID was misappropriated to disseminate malicious messages targeting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s family and other political figures.
“Globe has received reports indicating that its sender ID was exploited to circulate harmful messages targeting the President’s family and notable political personalities,” the statement revealed.
These messages urge recipients to click on dubious links to redeem points, a tactic known as “SMS spoofing.”
Scammers deploy an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) catcher to capture mobile users within a limited range.
This allows them to send messages from a spoofed sender ID without traversing Globe’s cellular network.
“Globe is investigating this incident and is working with relevant authorities and other partners to prevent a recurrence,” it said.
It also urged subscribers to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with any suspicious messages or links.The company refrained from providing further details about this incident.