Globe Telecom has introduced a new security feature on its GlobeOne app designed to protect subscribers from the rising number of text-based scams, even after the enactment of the SIM Registration Law.
The feature, called SMS Scam Shield, is initially available to Android users and works by alerting subscribers when they receive suspicious messages, particularly those impersonating brands such as Globe or GCash.
Spoofing and phishing scams often disguise themselves as legitimate messages from companies or banks in order to trick users into clicking malicious links or revealing personal information. Many of these scams are spread using devices such as IMSI catchers, which mimic cell towers to send fraudulent messages.
“SMS Scam Shield is our way of giving customers more control and peace of mind. With this built-in protection, users are alerted via the GlobeOne app when they receive suspicious messages that may contain dangerous links or impersonate Globe-affiliated brands,” said Coco Domingo, Globe product experience vice president.
The system scans text messages locally on the user’s device, flags potential phishing attempts, and issues push notifications when threats are detected. Globe stressed that the tool does not store or transmit personal SMS content, but instead collects only harmful links to strengthen the system’s defenses.
Since its rollout, more than 34,000 GlobeOne users have enabled the feature, with over 13,000 phishing messages identified in the first few weeks.
Subscribers can activate SMS Scam Shield for free through the GlobeOne app by going to “Profile” and selecting “Security Settings.”
The initiative also allows community reporting through Globe’s Stop Spam page to expand the blacklist of fraudulent links.
“Security shouldn’t be an afterthought, it should be seamless. This is just the beginning of more proactive tools we’re building into our digital services,” Domingo added.
