Mindanao Joins National Effort to Raise Awareness on Christmas Scams

As scams continue to rise across the Philippines, especially during peak shopping seasons and holidays, it’s more important than ever for Iliganons and Mindanao residents to know exactly where to seek help. Whether the scam happened online, through a call, a delivery, or a fake investment, support is available at the city, regional, and national levels. This guide provides clear, accessible steps to help you report scams and protect yourself and your community.

Scam Watch Pilipinas, in coordination with national agencies and private-sector partners, identified the Top 12 Scams of Christmas in the Philippines for 2025. The list aims to help protect Filipinos from rising online and offline fraud cases, especially during the holiday season when digital transactions and deliveries increase significantly.

Top 12 Christmas Scams to Watch

1. Online shopping scam targeting buyers through fake listings and fraudulent sellers.
2. Fake delivery scam involving bogus packages and payment demands.
3. Call scam using deceptive phone calls for phishing or financial fraud.
4. Task or job scam offering false online work opportunities.
5. Investment scam promising unrealistic returns.
6. Love scam using emotional manipulation for financial gain.
7. Loan scam with predatory or fake lending channels.
8. Impersonation scam copying identities to deceive victims.
9. Travel scam tied to fake bookings and nonexistent trips.
10. Charity scam exploiting generosity during the season.
11. Middleman scam using fake intermediaries for transactions.
12. Online gambling scam preying on users through rigged or illegal platforms.

The list reinforces nationwide efforts to strengthen consumer vigilance and cybersecurity, encouraging communities across Mindanao and the rest of the country to stay informed and cautious during the holidays.

Protect Yourself This Christmas Season

Filipinos are encouraged to verify transactions, report suspicious activity, and practice secure online habits to safeguard personal and financial information during the busy holiday period.

FAQ: Where to Get Help if You Are a Victim of a Scam (Iligan, Mindanao, National)

1. I think I was scammed. What is the first thing I should do?

Immediately secure all evidence: screenshots, receipts, chat history, phone numbers, account names, and transaction details. Do not delete anything.

ILIGAN CITY LEVEL

2. Where can I report a scam in Iligan City?

You may report to:

• Iligan City Police Office (ICPO) – any nearest police station.
• ICPO Cyber Response Desk – for online or digital scams.
• Barangay Hall – if the scam involves a local individual or business.

3. Can I file a report if the amount is small?

Yes. All fraud cases, regardless of amount, can be reported and documented.

4. Who can help me if the scam involves an online seller within Iligan?

You can coordinate with:

• Barangay Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) (if they are registered locally)
• Iligan City Police – Anti-Cybercrime Desk
• DTI Lanao del Norte for consumer complaints.

MINDANAO REGIONAL LEVEL

5. How do I report a scam affecting someone in Mindanao?

You can contact the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group – Regional Office (PNP ACG Region 10 or your region).

6. Are there regional hotlines for cybercrime and online fraud?

Yes. Each PNP-ACG Regional Office maintains hotlines and Facebook pages where you can file complaints or request assistance.

7. Can Mindanao victims file complaints even if the scammer is from another region?

Yes. Regional cybercrime units coordinate nationwide and can endorse your case to other regions.

NATIONAL LEVEL

8. Where can I report a scam nationally?

You can file reports through:

• PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG)
  • Website: acg.pnp.gov.ph
• Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC)
• DICT Cybercrime Offices
• Scam Watch Pilipinas (public awareness partner)

9. Is there a national hotline for scam and fraud reports?

Yes:

• CICC 1326 Hotline – accepts reports about scams, fraud, and online threats nationwide.

10. How do I report scam messages or calls?

You may send details to:

• NTC through complaint channels
• Your telecom provider’s reporting form (Globe, Smart, DITO)

LEGAL & CONSUMER PROTECTION

11. Where can I file a consumer complaint for online shopping scams?

• DTI Consumer Protection Group
• DTI Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB)
  For sellers on major platforms, you may also report via the app’s dispute system.

12. Can I take legal action against the scammer?

Yes. You may pursue:

• Criminal charges (fraud/estafa or cybercrime violations)
• Civil action for damages

DOCUMENTATION AND SAFETY

13. What evidence should I prepare before reporting?

Prepare the following:

• Screenshots of chats and profiles
• Payment receipts or transaction records
• IDs of both parties (if available)
• Phone numbers, links, or email addresses
• Timeline of events

14. How can I avoid future scams?

• Verify sellers, pages, and contacts
• Avoid sending money without proof
• Use official apps or escrow systems
• Be cautious of too-good-to-be-true offers

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

15. Can Iligan or Mindanao residents join scam prevention groups?

Yes. Many local groups and national partners, including Scam Watch Pilipinas, regularly post updates, warnings, and educational material.

Staying informed is one of the strongest defenses against fraud. By knowing where to report suspicious activity—whether in Iligan, across Mindanao, or nationwide—you help strengthen community safety and prevent others from becoming victims. Share this guide to keep more people protected, and stay alert to safeguard your hard-earned money and personal information.