The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has taken a major step forward in combating digital financial crimes with the launch of its Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook and the introduction of the Scam Assistance Hub (SAH), alongside the renewal of its partnership with GCash.
The SAH allows the public to quickly and easily file scam reports via a simple QR code, streamlining coordination between law enforcement and fintech platforms for faster response to online fraud.
Renewed Partnership for Stronger Cybersecurity
The PNP-ACG and GCash renewed their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), first signed in 2022, which established collaboration on cybersecurity awareness, capability-building, and information sharing. This renewed commitment reflects the shared goal of tackling financial cybercrimes and protecting consumers amid the rapid growth of digital payments.
“Financial technology continues to evolve, and so do the methods used by cybercriminals,” said Miguel Geronilla, GCash Chief Information and Security Officer. “We are proud to support PNP-ACG by sharing fintech expertise and case studies to build a more informed and prepared response force against digital financial threats.”
Empowering Law Enforcement Frontliners
Developed in partnership with GCash, the Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook equips Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) and ACG personnel with knowledge on emerging financial cybercrime trends. It includes modules on cybersecurity frameworks, cybercrime laws, financial investigations, fintech systems, and cryptocurrency fundamentals.
“These initiatives are vital to protecting Filipinos in the digital space,” said Brig. Gen. Bernard R. Yang, PNP-ACG Director. “By providing our officers with timely learning tools and strategic collaborations, we are strengthening our readiness against emerging cyber threats.”
The handbook will be distributed to regional units through virtual assemblies and video modules, supporting the PNP’s modernization strategy and the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023–2028 developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).
Supporting Regulatory Updates
This initiative complements the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), recently passed in July 2024, which targets social engineering scams, money muling, and other online fraud, while empowering institutions like the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to investigate suspicious transactions. The handbook provides officers with the knowledge to enforce AFASA provisions effectively.
Simplified Scam Reporting via QR Code
The newly launched Scam Assistance Hub (SAH) allows users to report scams through a QR code linking directly to GCash’s SAH platform. Victims can file police reports, receive assistance, and process claims under GCash’s Express Send Scam Insurance, ensuring faster, coordinated responses to fraud.
Building a Future-Ready Cyber Force
These programs complement PNP-ACG’s public education and prevention campaigns, aiming to strengthen digital literacy for both law enforcement and the general public.
“Technology will continue to evolve, and criminals will continue to adapt,” Brig. Gen. Yang emphasized. “But by moving forward together with stronger capabilities and clearer direction, we are building a more resilient cyber defense for the nation.”
While the SAH QR code is still being rolled out, the public can continue reporting cybercrime via the PNP-ACG hotline 1326, GCash Help Center, or other official customer support channels. Stay updated through PNP-ACG’s official social media pages for ongoing initiatives in digital security.
