Public warned vs scam calls on ‘unclaimed’ COVID-19 aid

Scam Alert Graphic. INQUIRER.net stock photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has warned the public against fraudulent calls asking for bank account information in exchange for alleged unclaimed COVID-19 cash aid.

DSWD said Thursday that it received a report that a fraudster is claiming to be a department representative to obtain bank account information from victims through a phone call.

But the DSWD said it would not ask for such information to dispense the financial assistance because of the Data Privacy Act of 2021. In addition, it advised the public to refrain from giving their sensitive personal information to an unknown individual through phone or mobile calls.

The DSWD then explained that its financial and COVID-19-related services are given through its Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU), located at the Central Office and in all DSWD field offices nationwide.

“Clients will undergo an assessment to avail of the needed assistance,” it said in a statement.

The DSWD urged the public to report dubious calls or communications to its Agency Operations Center through the 8888 Hotline or email [email protected]. — Andy Hoo, INQUIRER.net trainee

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