CICC Considers Blocking Messaging App, Signal Amid Spoofing Reports
Manila, Philippines — The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) is considering the temporary blocking of the encrypted messaging application Signal following multiple reports of spoofing incidents, according to CICC Undersecretary Aboy Paraiso.
In a statement released on social media, Paraiso said the agency has already coordinated with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), including NTC Commissioner Ella Lopez, to address the issue. Signal has reportedly emerged as a common platform used in recent spoofing complaints received over the weekend.
“At the same time, we are considering blocking Signal if they do not coordinate with the CICC and the NTC regarding this spoofing problem,” Paraiso said.
The CICC noted that investigating cases linked to Signal poses significant challenges due to the platform’s privacy and security features. According to Paraiso, Signal conceals number credentials, making it difficult for authorities to immediately identify or trace users involved in fraudulent activities.
“Frankly speaking, we cannot obtain the numbers unless we coordinate directly with the application provider itself,” he explained. “We also cannot rely on SIM card registration details for these numbers.”
Spoofing involves the manipulation of phone numbers or digital identities to impersonate legitimate individuals or organizations, often used in scams, fraud, and other cyber-related crimes. Authorities have previously warned that encrypted messaging platforms are increasingly being exploited by cybercriminals due to their anonymity and limited data visibility for law enforcement.
The CICC emphasized that any potential blocking would depend on Signal’s willingness to cooperate with Philippine authorities and comply with requests necessary for cybercrime investigations.
As of this writing, Signal has not issued a public response regarding the CICC’s statements or the possibility of coordination with local regulators.
The development comes amid the government’s broader efforts to strengthen cybersecurity measures and curb the rise of digital fraud affecting Filipino users.
