Warnings Issued by CICC and DICT Regarding False Hacks

Recent warnings were issued by CICC (Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center) and DICT (Department of Information and Communications Technology) about false data breach data posted on dark web forums. They reiterated how folks in the community should exercise caution especially about several fake eGovPH hacks in several anonymous posts.

According to CICC Executive Director Alexander Ramos, much of the posts seen in breach forums was nothing but a fake hack claim made to defraud other members in the community by stating they have data from the eGovPH app. They also specifically identified a user with the handle GR3GGM3RC3R who did this.  Meanwhile, DICT's Undersecretary for E-Government David Almirol assured the public how the app is protected from these because of several security features they implemented during its inception. The app has encruption, eGovChain security, and attached keys for what data it has, and if someone claims to have hacked it, and doesn't have that key, their claim wouldn't be legitimate.

For those who don't know, Breach Forums gained fame for cybercriminals and hackers who are into trading stolen data. Often using anonymized platforms, they use it to steal personal data. The user identified was banned recently and wasn't able to provide proof of said eGovPH hack. The place is also known for ransomware attacks, and these agencies warn folks who might fall prey with the false news.

This warning is issued by CICC's Office of the Executive Director, Alexander Ramos.

Office of PNP Chief Marbil Issues Statement on False Information in Social Media

Recent pronouncements, malicious attacks on social media has gotten the office of the PNP Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil worried where they insinuate removal of rice allowances for PNP personnel and having them donated to persons deprived of liberty. These are being strongly denied, unfounded and baseless as there have been no directives from their office, nor do they have plans to do so. These moves have been orchestrated to discredit the PNP Chief who has been working hard to restore reputation through smart methods. They say these are outright lies, fabricated, made to malign his policies.

PNP Chief Marbil is not using the word WAR in addressing operations in substance abuse, as he doesn't want to be associated with human rights abuse in the past. His office has noted essential reforms as of recent:

Mass formation and Flag Raising (15-20 minutes)

Personnel should be present and operational at 8am sharp 

Prohibit the use of cellphones while on patrol

Simplification of personnel compliance 

New UPER Criteria

Finish 70 percent of warrants and wanted individuals

No favoritism in promotions and assignments

Non exclusivity of promotions

Restriction of Police Community Relations

Non re-assignment of PNP personnel facing cases on their previous units

Meetings to be conducted online to maximize time for unit commanders

No changes for one month

Removal of 24 hour duty for personnel

They also deny the inclusions of inverted crawls in the PNP Physical Fitness Test. They also deny false information about donation of allowances as CIP, CDP, and rice subsidies are automatically added on regular salaries.

Respondents are forewarned that such accusations and lies will not be tolerated, and a thorough investigation is being done. People found at fault will be sanctioned.

He also urges the public to be vigilant and only believe verified information. Trust that the PNP under Chief Marbil and his office will serve and protect you, the Filipino people, with professionalism and integrity.

DICT Launches Tech Workshops with Huawei Philippines

Looks like the Department of Information and Communications Technology just made headway wit their workshops this year. They are hosting this for government employees from various agencies and it's all about the 6 emerging technologies, of which 700 participants have joined in. This has gone from June to November of 2021 and has covered important subjects such as 5G Networks, the Digital Economy, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity among others.

Assistant Secretary Alvin Navarro has lauded the DICT and Huawei Philippines for holding this in the country. He adds "Cybersecurity has indeed affected us and we need to work together to make sure our personal information and identity remain safe amidst the threats and risks around the world."

Huawei's VP Daniel Guo congratulated the teams for holding a successful run. DICT also presented Huawei a certificate of appreciation for hosting the event and sharing their technical know how about the topics in the workshops. This is a really good partnership. If you want to know more about it, you may follow HuaweiTechPH on Facebook for updates about their efforts too.