CICC reports 72% surge in cybercrime complaints

Cybercrime complaints handled by the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) surged by 72% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year.

According to CICC agent Marco Reyes, increased awareness about reporting channels is driving the rise in complaints, with 3,251 cases reported from January to March this year.

Reyes highlighted that roadshows and collaborations with Scam Watch Pilipinas have been instrumental in educating the public on how to report scams using platforms like the 1326 hotline.

Smishing and vishing were identified as the most common types of cybercrimes during the first quarter, with smishing involving deceptive text messages and vishing utilizing fraudulent phone calls typically impersonating bank employees.

Reyes noted that while AI's accessibility might be aiding cybercriminals, it is also a tool for good, emphasizing the need for proper governance to ensure its responsible use.

IBM AI architect Gerando Louis Bonganay suggested establishing an AI government body to regulate and promote ethical development and usage of artificial intelligence.