Mobile operators outline anti-scam measures as survey shows most Filipinos fear fraud

The country's three major mobile operators presented steps they are taking against scams at the GSMA Digital Nation Summit Manila, as an industry report found that most Filipino consumers are seriously worried about fraud, according to Mindanao Times.

The GSMA ASEAN Consumer Scam Report 2026 found that 76 percent of Filipino consumers surveyed said they "absolutely worry" about being scammed. It also found that 62 percent avoid contact or transactions because of scam concerns.

At the summit, Globe Telecom, PLDT/Smart and DITO Telecommunity described how they are strengthening protection, including stronger network safeguards and GSMA Open Gateway capabilities intended to make digital transactions safer. The GSMA, the global mobile industry association, said it is also working with operators across ASEAN to study whether network data and signals could help detect scam activity earlier. In the Philippines, this is being tested through a GSMA Foundry proof of concept with Globe.

Julian Gorman, the GSMA's head of Asia Pacific, said scams cross communications channels, digital platforms and payment systems, so protecting consumers requires action across the digital ecosystem. "The priority now is to turn these capabilities into practical solutions that better protect consumers," he said.

The push comes as the Philippines ranked third equal among 11 ASEAN markets in the GSMA's Digital Nations Index 2026. The summit, held under the theme "Building the Philippines' Digital Future: Anchoring Trust to Accelerate Value," brought together policymakers, mobile operators and technology leaders to discuss digital trust, connectivity and partnerships for the country's digital development.