As more and more people get immersed in the online shopping trend, an influx of Gcash subscribers is expected. And as demand increases, so do scammers and phishers. It’s sad to see how these two seem to go next to each other all the time. Like how there’s no day without night. Or you can see good when there’s evil. As a Gcash registered subscriber, let this be a lesson learned. Hoping that you will join the numbers of those who got scammed in the online world. So, we are listing some modus operandi that you need to be aware of.
GCash Scams to not fall for
Scammers are everywhere. The easiest way to not fall as a victim, you need to learn how to segregate from legitimate sources. Here are some scams you must shy away from:
Unauthorized GCash Customer Service
Posting as a representative of Gcash is the easiest way to lure subscribers from falling into a trap. All huge corporations have a pool of customer service representatives. They are available on various social media sites for subscribers to reach them anytime.
However, do take note that Gcash has removed their helpdesks on Facebook Messenger and Twitter. With that being said, if you, as a subscriber receive a message from someone who introduced themselves as a representative, be very wary. They might come to you with valid concerns that you previously raised. Or concoct one from thin air. But you know they aren’t legitimate if:
- They are using either Facebook Messenger or Twitter.
- Asked you to provide your personal information, Password, MPIN, and CPV.
The idea is to hack into your account so they can milk money out of your Gcash account. As vigilant as they are in scamming subscribers, Gcash has consistently reminded subscribers to not easily give away their log-ins and MPINs.
Being asked to click suspicious links
Hackers are good at pretending to come from Gcash or Globe. They send suspicious messages via Email or text messages asking to update your records on file using a link. Not knowing that these are phishers trying to dish out your personal data for their personal agenda.
Before clicking on any suspicious links, validate first with Gcash or Globe website if the promotion or update they are reporting is valid. Check the actual link first and the sender’s email address if they are coming from globe or gcash.
Receiving Spoof messages
Some fraudsters are sending messages to leech from subscribers. Gcash has alarmed subscribers of how people are using the pandemic to ask subscribers to update their information or to send their personal data. They even go to the extent of masking the numbers to 2882 or Gcash.
An example of a spoof message is “we are updating our system and we need to get your MPIN and personal details to avoid deactivation of your account.” Several people fell into the trap and got some of their money stolen. Some exercise the wrong judgment and sent cash to unknown users.
Before entrusting your personal details to anyone, validate the numbers thoroughly before you regret anything.
Resellers of GCash Mastercard
Due to the influx of Gcash subscribers, Gcash MasterCards are needed more than ever. Because with Mastercard, you can fully enjoy the benefit of having a Gcash account. All you need is the card number and CVC at the back to process any transaction.
This has led to entities presenting themselves as authorized distributors of Gcash Mastercard. You’ll see them mostly on online shopping sites like Shoppee. While it is easier to purchase from these entities, it doesn’t guarantee the security of the data and money linked to the account. People who have a record of the card number and CVC can use them for unauthorized purchases online.
Gcash has its own list of authorized partners or distribution channels which are mainly convenience stores and Globe centers all over the country.
Unauthorized Gcash partners or merchants
Cashing in and out are the main features of Gcash that made a revolutionary change in the e-banking world, especially in the Philippines. For people who do not have the capacity to open bank accounts, this is a breath of fresh air as it makes funds transfer easier and affordable.
Due to this, anyone can also post as a Gcash partner, offering ways to cash out or cash on behalf of the subscriber. For each cash-out transaction, subscribers are asked to pay 2% of the amount as a service charge and reply with a Pincode to proceed with the withdrawal. People who don’t have much experience with this process and in desperation for cash may fall victim to this fraudulent activity. Before they know it, their entire money has been wiped out from their account.
If by any chance, you are caught in GCash Scams, GCash fraud, the best thing to do is to report it to Gcash.
How to report Gcash scammers
Gcash has a Customer’s Protect Program to help subscribers who fell victim to any fraudulent activities. If your account is PARTIALLY VERIFIED (Basic Plan), you can get a refund of up to Php 2,000.00. And for FULLY VERIFIED accounts, you can be entitled to up to Php 100,000.00. However, do take note that GCash has to run an investigation to qualify if the request for refund is valid or not.
For any unauthorized transactions, you will be given prioritized handling in responding to your concern. A report must be filed within 15 days from the date the transaction occurred. However, for lost cards, they have to be reported within 24 hours. To report the scammer, submit a ticket via HelpCenter or chat with a live representative through the Gcash app or website within working hours.
How to file a ticket
- Go to this link.
- Enter your email address, Gcash registered Full Name, and mobile number.
- Under Concern Category, choose My GCash Account’. After which, you can select any of the following:
- I want to report my account is involved in fraudulent activity or report an unauthorized transaction.
- My account was hacked.
- Attach the following documents:
For Mastercard concerns.
- The last 4 digits of the Mastercard in question
For transactions in-app
- Copy of valid ID
- 3 specimen signatures
I have been scammed. What should I do?
If you feel that you have been scammed, evaluate the transaction first. Check if you are covered by the Customer’s Protect Program. Unauthorized payments and system errors are valid concerns that are covered by the program. However, when it is swindling, you have to contact the seller or receiver directly. B definition, swindling is when a seller failed to deliver an item or service that you have paid for. Another is when you shared your password, MPIN or OTP to anyone who processed your order.
Ways to Avoid Scam in Gcash
- NEVER share your personal details with anyone. Even to impostors who introduce themselves as Gcash representatives asking for your MPIN and OTP.
- Safeguard your account by FULLY verifying your account.
- Add security questions for your Gcash account.
- Verify the links and sender of emails and text messages before clicking the link or giving away any of your details.
- Only transact in authorized partners or merchants. Use official websites to avoid scammers.
The world is full of scammers and frauds. If you are not careful, you can fall victim to their modus operandi. Stand guard against fraudsters and avoid giving away your personal details. Safeguard your account to fully enjoy the benefits that Gcash has to offer.
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Last modified: August 21, 2021
