DILG issues warning vs. contact tracer scam

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has warned the public to be vigilant for individuals who introduce themselves as contact tracers, who ask for personal information such as bank account and credit card details, Oscar Oida reported on 24 Oras on Friday.

The contact tracer scam is usually done through SMS or text messages in which the victim would be told that he or she was recently in contact with a coronavirus positive individual.

However, this is followed by an unusual series of questions such as personal financial information.

"Ngunit 'pag tinanong mo naman kung sino naman kung sino 'yung COVID patient, hindi naman ito sasabihin dahil ito daw ay violation ng data privacy," said DILG Undersecratary Jonathan Malaya.

"Hahanapan ka ngayon ng bank account number or kailangan mo magbayad. Hindi pala libre 'yun. Dun ang scam," he added.

For those who refuse to provide such details, the individual is told that he or she faces penalties.

The DILG said the people behind the contact tracer scam are operating in Pampanga and other areas in central Luzon.

The real members of contact tracing teams, the DILG underscored, are from the local government health office.

The team call and text individuals who were in close contact with COVID-19 patients. However, their questions are specific to one's well-being, whereabouts and date of last contact with the COVID-19 patient.

"Kung kailan ka huling nakasama ng taong 'yun. Sino ang mga nakahalobilo niyo. Ano ang sintomas niyo ngayon. Do you have cough? Do you have fever? Tutulungan kayo to manage your situation," Malaya explained.

"Posible din sabihin sa inyo kung sino 'yung diumano tao na naging close contact niyo. Hindi iyan confidential sa inyo. Okay? confidential 'yan sa publiko," he added.

Malaya stressed that the contact tracer will never ask for money. Therefore, there should be no discussion on money transfers.

He explained that government funds are used for the contact tracing program, especially for the marginalized sector.

The public is advised to inform the local government unit if one is doubtful about text messages or calls coming from a contact tracer. -- BAP, GMA News