149 Women and Children Victims in the Philippines in 2024
In the Philippines, the rise of cybercrime has become a pressing concern, with recent statistics revealing a staggering 149 cases involving women and children in the first half of 2024. This alarming revelation comes from the report of PNP-ACG Director P/Major Gen. Sidney Hernia during the AngelNet Summit 2024, held at the Multi-Purpose Hall of Camp Crame. The summit aimed to bolster efforts in combating cybercrimes, where women and children often find themselves as primary targets.
Hernia disclosed that this figure represents a 36% increase from the recorded victims in 2023. Last year alone, the PNP-ACG documented a total of 407 cases involving female and child victims, including instances of image and video voyeurism, a clear violation of Republic Act (RA) 9995. Furthermore, the summit introduced initiatives such as “Aleng Pulis” and the CyberSquad, the avatar group of the PNP-ACG, which will serve as frontline investigators to enhance cybersecurity for women and children.
According to P/Col/ Jean Fajardo, Acting Chief of the Public Information Office, the event’s theme is “Aleng Pulis Cybersquad and Angel Network, Working Together for Online Safety.” This underscores the collaborative effort needed to safeguard vulnerable groups from the perils of cyberspace.
In light of these concerning developments, individuals must take proactive steps to protect themselves from falling victim to cybercrimes:
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the various forms of cybercrimes and their modus operandi. Awareness is the first line of defense against online threats.
- Use Strong Passwords: Your online accounts should be secured with complex and unique passwords. Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or names.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible. This provides an additional barrier against unauthorized access.
- Be Cautious with Personal Information: Exercise caution when sharing personal information online, especially on social media platforms. Limit the personal data you disclose to minimize the risk of identity theft or phishing attacks.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your devices and software to patch security vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals often exploit outdated systems to gain access to sensitive information.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter any suspicious or malicious activity online, immediately report it to the relevant authorities. Prompt action can help prevent further harm and contribute to the fight against cybercrimes.
By implementing these preventive measures and fostering a culture of vigilance, individuals can play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of cybercrimes and creating a safer digital environment for everyone, especially women and children.
