Two suspects were arrested in Makati City for apparently selling prepaid SIM cards that comes with verified GCash accounts.
The arrest was made by the operatives of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG). The operation was done after undercover officers tried to purchase the SIM cards from the suspects.
As per the PNP, the said transaction is in violation of the Republic Act 8484 or the Access Device Regulation Act of 1998.
“Using the prepaid SIM card, verified GCash account number, they can do transactions online. Transferring of money, buying and selling. Pwede rin sila magpabili ng pagkain nang walang kahirap-hirap na hindi naman sa kanilang pera ang ginagamit na pambili,” said Police Colonel Jay Guillermo of the PNP-ACG crime response unit.
“Hindi nila alam na ‘yung pangalan nila, ‘yung picture nila, ‘yung personal info nila ay ginagamit sa krimen. So pag tayo ay nag-iimbestiga, magiging sila ang mga suspects kasi ang ginagamit ng mga taong nandoon, nasa likod na kumikita ng malaki, ito ang pinapakita nilang impormasyon, yung mga nakuha nila sa maliliit na tao,” Guillermo added.
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The suspects refused to provide statements. However, as per the initial investigation, each SIM card is bought by the buyers for Php150 from their victims. The suspects will then offer it to hackers for Php400 per piece.
This type of modus apparently occurs in provinces.
In line with this, the authorities are warning the public against selling prepaid SIM cards and personal information.
With this incident, the police are highlighting the need to pass the SIM Card Registration bill, which would help mend such cybercrime. The proposed law was vetoed by President Rodrigo Duterte.
Via: GMA News Online