QUEZON CITY, (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) warned the public against scammers who are posing as government officials to lure victims into handing over their vital information.

In a statement on Thursday, the DSWD said they received reports of an individual pretending to be an employee of the department asking for the bank account number of unsuspecting victims, in exchange for the release of an allegedly unclaimed COVID-19 cash aid.

The DSWD emphasized that it will not ask for such information to their clients pursuant to the Data Privacy Act of 2012.

“Relative to this incident, the DSWD reminded the public to refrain from giving their sensitive personal information to an unknown individuals through phone or mobile call,” DSWD noted.

According to DSWD, financial and other COVID-19-related services are extended through the Department's Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU).

The DSWD reminded the public that CIU clients undergo an assessment to avail of the needed assistance.

For any similar incidents, the public is advised to report it to the DSWD Agency Operations Center through email: aoc@dswd.gov.ph or 8888 Hotline.

Meanwhile, to verify various services and programs of DSWD, individuals can inquire and send concerns to Department’s official Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/dswdserves or @dswdserves. (JAFD/PIA-IDPD)