Globe warns customers of Netflix One-Time Pin (OTP) scam

Globe warned customers not to share their one-time pin (OTP), even if they are offered a prize or promo. This advisory is part of the telco's advocacy to protect its customers from scammers and spammers.

According to Globe, customers receiving suspicious calls and texts must immediately report it to https://www.globe.com.ph/stop-spam.html.

The company reaffirmed this reminder following recent controversy surrounding over-the-top (OTT) media services such as Netflix.

In this modus operandi, fraudsters register for Netflix with a random Globe Postpaid phone number. They then send an SMS to the customer's phone number, posing as a Globe representative, informing them that they've won prizes such as smartphones and motorcycles. The customer is then prompted for the OTP generated during registration. Once the customer sends the OTP, the scammers complete the signup process, and the customer is charged for the subscription.

This scheme is a form of "smishing," in which attackers send text messages posing as representatives of reputable companies to trick a victim into disclosing personal information.

Anton Bonifacio, Globe Chief Information Security Officer, said, "The shift to a more digital lifestyle amid restrictions makes vigilance all the more important, since fraudsters are adapting to this reality and are looking for avenues to hoodwink customers. As a connectivity enabler, Globe has been working closely with its partners to deter these illegal acts, and the cooperation of our customers is crucial since their awareness is the first line of defense."

Globe has been sending frequent SMS blasts to all customers in recent months to alert them to this ongoing scam. Additionally, it has used its social media platform, Globe Icon, to educate the public on identifying scammers. Furthermore, the company assists customers in resolving unwanted charges.

Globe also shared information on how to spot a scam or spam message:

• The sender is an 11-digit number. Official Globe advisories come only from a 4-digit or alphanumeric sender code.
• There is a deliberate capitalization of certain letters and grammatical and spelling errors in the message.
• The text message requests for personal information, e.g., name, age, and address, in exchange for raffle prizes.
• The sender requests for OTP or one-time pin, password, or PIN. Globe and other legitimate institutions will never request for a password or OTP, so they should never be shared with anyone.

Customers can also report fraudulent activities to Globe via several channels, including the company's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/globeph), Twitter handle (@Talk2GLOBE), and the GlobeOne app.

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"As a company that connects many Filipinos, it is our responsibility and commitment to protect our customers and keep every aspect of our business safe and secure from all forms of criminality. We are always on the lookout for the latest schemes so we can apprise the public and importantly, find ways to combat these," added Bonifacio.

Note: This article was updated