June 18, 2024 - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is urging the public to be vigilant against a fake TikTok post claiming that the agency is offering educational assistance to students nationwide.
The post, which can be found at https://www.tiktok.com/discover/is-the-7395-grant-legit, is a tutorial on how to supposedly apply for the assistance. However, the DSWD has clarified that the post is a scam and that the agency does not solicit personal information online for the application of educational assistance.
The DSWD reminded the public that it is prohibited under the Data Privacy Act for government agencies to collect personal information online. The agency also stressed that it does not release educational assistance directly to schools.
The DSWD is asking the public to report the TikTok account "Philippine Go Today" (https://www.tiktok.com/discover/Philippine-Go-Today) for spreading false information about the agency's programs and services.
The agency also reminded the public to be wary of online scams and to protect their personal information.
Here are some tips to avoid falling victim to online scams:
- Be suspicious of unsolicited messages or emails that ask for your personal information.
- Do not click on links in suspicious emails or messages.
- Verify the authenticity of websites before entering your personal information.
- Use strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Be careful about what you share on social media.
If you think you have been a victim of an online scam, you can report it to the following:
- National Bureau of Investigation (NBI): https://nbi.gov.ph/
- Philippine National Police (PNP): https://pais.pnp.gov.ph/
- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI): https://www.dti.gov.ph/
Together, we can fight against fake news and protect ourselves from online scams. Remember, sa DSWD, bawal ang fake news!