MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) issued a warning on Thursday about the rise of fake social media accounts posing as its employees on Facebook.
In a statement, the BI stated that several scammers have been using the photos and information of their employees on social media, allegedly deceiving the public into transacting with them by imitating the official seal of the Bureau.
“These scammers reportedly disguise as immigration lawyers and legal officers. They create profiles using photos of our employees, their badges, and even the logo of the Bureau,” BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said.
The BI stressed that its employees are not permitted to transact and coordinate outside the BI premises and after office hours.
“There have been reports in the past where fake social media profiles have fueled scams, and have gotten people duped out of money,” Tansingco said.
The BI commissioner also expressed his dismay with the rising number of fake social media pages.
“It is illegal to assume the identity of others, more so to demand money from anyone using the government’s name,” Tansingco stated.
“The BI strongly warns the public against internet acquaintances. Remain keen to avoid being victimized,” the BI chief added.
Alyssa Joy Quevedo, INQUIRER.net trainee
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