PHILIPPINES: MOBILE PHONE SOLUTIONS AGAINST TEXT SCAMS

 

NTC has issued Memorandum Order No. 006-09-2022 about Mobile Phone Solutions Against Text Scams on September 14, 2022.

 

According to the order, the representatives of mobile phone manufacturers, distributors and dealers should inform the public of these protective mobile phone features, which their mobile phones have in order to protect users from text scams with. The following measures are suggested to be implemented through various means, such as, but not limited to:

1. The relevant bodies shall provide directions to their mobile phone users on how to block texts from mobile numbers not in their contact lists and how to create a spam folder in their inboxes. These directions shall be disseminated through the manufacturer’s websites and social media accounts (i.e. Facebook, Instagram, etc.);
2. The relevant bodies shall put up posters in their physical stores to educate their mobile phone buyers on how to use, enable or activate the text blocking, spam folder and other similar features in their phones; and
3. The relevant bodies shall include in each new mobile phone package an insert or leaflet containing directions on how to use, enable or activate the text blocking, spam folder and other similar features in their phones.

The above measures shall be implemented within fifteen (15) days from the issuance of the Memorandum Order and thereafter shall form part of the mandatory requirements for type approval/acceptance and related permits for customer premises equipment, particularly mobile phone products filed before the Commission.