HERNIA
PNP: Cybercrime cases down during Holy Week
CYBERCRIME cases in the country fell down by as much as 40.79 percent during the Holy Week owing the decreased online engagement and increased public awareness on the matter, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group reported yesterday.
According to PNP-ACG director Major General Sidney S. Hernia, they documented a total of 225 cybercrime incidents during the last week of March compared to the 380 investigated during the previous week or a decline of 40.79 percent.
He said the top five prevalent offenses among the reported incidents included 96 of online scams, 63 cases of illegal access, 18 cases of identity theft, 15 cases of online libel and 8 cases of online threats.
The official said the combination of decreased online engagement and the proactive response of individuals, fueled by increased awareness and strengthened security measures contributed significantly to the observed decline in cybercrime cases during the period.
He said many people spent their time observing the Holy Week or bonding with their families keeping them away from digital platforms which reduced the opportunity for cybercriminals to target the public.
The official added that the government’s continuing effort to raise awareness about cybercrime has also kep the public well informed of the risks associated with online interactions, prompting many individuals to adopt more strict security measures to protect themselves, particularly during periods of heightened vulnerability like holidays.
