The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued a public advisory warning against fake cash aid offers circulating online. According to the advisory released on September 3, 2024, fraudulent posts are promising cash assistance of PHP5,000 to PHP8,000 for students from elementary to college in exchange for personal information. DepEd stressed that these announcements are scams aimed at gathering personal data under false pretenses.
The bogus schemes use official-looking documents, including fake DepEd logos and images of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, to appear credible. The agency advised the public to remain vigilant and only trust information from DepEd’s official channels. This recent advisory is part of DepEd’s ongoing efforts to combat misinformation and prevent the public from falling victim to online scams.
Fake Cash Aid Scams Targeting Students
The fake announcements circulating on social media have caused confusion, leading many students and parents to believe in the existence of cash assistance programs that promise up to PHP8,000 per student. These scams claim to offer financial support to ease the burden of educational expenses but, in reality, are designed to collect sensitive information such as Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-issued birth certificates, school IDs, and enrollment certificates. The fraudsters even provide a fake online registration form that asks for personal data under the guise of securing the aid.
DepEd has emphasized that it does not operate any such program and warns the public to avoid falling prey to these fake offers. They reiterated that the agency only communicates legitimate programs through its official platforms, including their website and social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). These fake cash aid schemes are particularly harmful as they not only mislead families but also pose significant risks of identity theft.
DepEd’s Response and Public Advisory
To counter these fraudulent activities, DepEd has urged the public to exercise caution and report any suspicious messages or posts related to fake cash assistance. In their official statement, DepEd reminded everyone to stay informed and rely only on credible sources when it comes to government programs. They encouraged individuals to report misleading information to the DepEd Action Center through email at depedactioncenter@deped.gov.ph.
DepEd also reminded the public that its legitimate announcements and aid programs will always come from their verified social media accounts and official website. They have no affiliation with any posts or offers of cash aid that ask for personal information through unofficial channels. As part of their campaign to ensure public safety online, DepEd has been actively intercepting and investigating these scams, reiterating that legal action will be taken against those responsible for the fraudulent use of DepEd’s name and logo.
How to Avoid Falling for Scams
DepEd advises students, parents, and the general public to remain vigilant when receiving unsolicited offers, especially those that request sensitive information in exchange for financial benefits. As a preventive measure, they recommend double-checking any suspicious offers by verifying them through official government platforms. Additionally, individuals should refrain from clicking on any questionable links or providing personal details to unauthorized sources.
DepEd also emphasizes the importance of reporting fraudulent activities to the authorities, including their action center, to help minimize the reach and impact of these scams. By working together and staying informed, the public can avoid falling victim to fake cash aid schemes that continue to proliferate online.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Fake News and Scams
This recent advisory from DepEd is not the first instance of the agency dealing with fake assistance offers. In the past, the department has encountered similar fraudulent activities and has consistently taken steps to protect the public from these scams. In line with the government’s broader anti-fraud initiatives, DepEd has intensified its efforts to educate the public on the dangers of misinformation, particularly in the digital space.
DepEd’s commitment to safeguarding the public from scams aligns with its mission to ensure that students and their families receive accurate and timely information. The agency urges everyone to remain cautious, avoid spreading unverified information, and report any suspicious activities immediately. DepEd will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate and take action against these fraudulent schemes.
Video: DepEd Warns of Fake Cash Assistance Posts
Watch this video from Brabonews and learn more about the recent surge in fake cash aid announcements, from DepEd, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and even the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), all targeting students across the Philippines. The video also offers information on how to identify these scams and protect your personal information from such fraudulent activities.