NCSC, CICC Strengthen Crackdown on Online False Information Targeting Senior Citizens

Reinforcing its commitment to protect senior citizens, the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), in coordination with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), has intensified its efforts to curb the spread of online false information targeting older persons.

The NCSC commended the CICC for its swift action against the proliferation of misleading content, including claims about the supposed approval of a universal social pension and other misleading financial assistance schemes.

Through the CICC’s Cybercrime Investigation Office, flagged online content undergoes thorough verification, followed by the prompt preservation and takedown of violative materials.

According to the investigation team, these activities may constitute violations of Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code and Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

These initiatives form part of the government’s broader efforts to protect vulnerable sectors, particularly senior citizens, from online fraud and deception.

The NCSC emphasized that false claims regarding senior citizen benefits can lead to confusion, exploitation, and erosion of trust in legitimate government programs. By acting swiftly, authorities are able to mitigate potential harm and prevent the further spread of misinformation.

NCSC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Ma. Merceditas N. Gutierrez reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to strengthening its collaboration with the CICC to enhance monitoring, reporting, and enforcement mechanisms against ‘fake news’ and other cyber-related threats.

“Those who exploit senior citizens are unscrupulously taking away the security, dignity, and peace of mind of those who deserve the most protection and respect. As a society, we must view this not just as simple fraud, but as cruel abuse,” said Atty. Gutierrez during the “Golden Heart: Puso para sa Seniors” radio program.

In the same program, Cybercrime Investigation Office Director Rojun V. Hosillos highlighted that the internet is not entirely private and that absolute security in cyberspace does not exist.

“Lahat ng gumagamit ng internet ay may anonymity. Puwede tayong magtago online ng ating tunay na pagkakakilanlan, kaya huwag tayong basta magtiwala sa mga kausap [at nakikita] natin online,” Director Hosillos said.

Both agencies will continue their close coordination, with the NCSC anticipating further updates on ongoing enforcement and takedown efforts.

The NCSC also reiterated its warning to the public against spreading false information regarding programs and benefits for senior citizens. The public is advised to rely only on official NCSC social media pages for announcements and to directly contact its Regional Offices for any inquiries. ■