Malaysian national arrested for allegedly supplying text scam IMSI catchers

Philippine authorities arrested Malaysian national Thiang Choon Wee, suspected of leading a syndicate supplying IMSI catchers for text scams.

An IMSI catcher, also known as a rogue cell tower or stingray, mimics a legitimate cell tower to track devices and intercept communications, and can be used to track people's locations, activities, text messages, calls, and data traffic.

DICT Secretary Ivan Uy confirmed that the suspect has likely sold IMSI catchers, which cost around P600,000.

The arrest was a joint operation by the CICC, PNP-Anti-Cybercrime Group, Bureau of Immigration, and the National Telecommunications Commission.

Authorities are now identifying politicians or candidates who may have purchased these SMS blasters, which can broadcast messages without a database, SIM card, or internet connection.

CICC Executive Director Alexander Ramos vowed to fight foreign scammers who exploit Filipinos.