Text scammers are more likely to increase now that Christmas season is fast approaching. Their style is to offer quick cash, or a house and lot, or a new car, even if the recipient of the text message never took part in a raffle. Example:

We are glad to inform you that you have won P650,000 thru PGMA. Claim ur prize, call now. I’m Atty. Garey B. Aquino from BSP Info Department. DTI Permit #3920.

I think many have fallen for such scams. Which is why, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) gave us some tips on how to detect such frauds (from Yahoo News):

First clue: the source of the text message is just an ordinary 11-digit mobile number instead of the special four-digit numbers.

Second clue: the message would claim that the recipient won in a raffle they never knew they took part.

Third clue: the message urges the recipient to claim his or her “prize” quickly. The DTI said promos usually give the winner 60 days to claim the prize.

To report a text scam, call DTI Direct Hotline at 751-3330. You can also file a complaint on their webste.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is the executive department of the Philippine Government tasked to expand Philippine trade and industry as the means to generate jobs and raise incomes for Filipinos.