PSA Warns Against Phishing Scams Disguised as National ID Assistance

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reiterated its warning to the public against phishing scams where scammers pose as PSA personnel offering assistance related to the National ID.

Individuals or groups behind such scams utilize texts, calls, emails, or virtual meetings via video conferencing platforms to trick individuals into providing personal information under the guise of National ID assistance like updating of information or ID delivery. Email display names or links provided also resemble official websites or apps of government agencies.

In other instances, house-to-house visits are done, where registered persons are offered with cash in exchange of having their National ID photographed. 

​PSA Undersecretary Claire Dennis S. Mapa, PhD, National Statistician and Civil Registrar General emphasized its commitment to uphold data privacy and security in the continuous rollout of the National ID system.

“The PSA condemns any fraudulent activities that attempt to undermine the integrity of our National ID system,” Usec. Mapa said.

On possible consequences for National ID-related fraud, Usec. Mapa added, “We are actively taking steps to hold these scammers accountable. The Philippine Identification System Act clearly defines the penalties for individuals or groups proven to be involved in such acts.”

Under Section 19 of the Republic Act 11055, any person proven to be collecting or using personal data, or access the National ID system or process data or information without any authority can be penalized with 6 to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine of P3,000,000 to P5,000,000.

Twice the amount of financial profit gained from accessing, disclosing, or using such data or information will also be added as penalty.

Assistant Secretary Rosalinda P. Bautista, Deputy National Statistician of the PhilSys Registry Office, further advised the public to avoid providing personal information to unknown individuals, regardless of channel or method.

“The protection of our data is a shared responsibility of the PSA and every registered person. We underscore the importance of vigilance and urge everyone to report these  individuals or groups behind such schemes. For any National ID concerns, we encourage the public to refer to or contact the official channels of the PSA,” said Asec. Bautista.

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