Philippines Gears Up in Fight Against Cybercrimes

The Philippines is stepping up its fight against the rising tide of cybercrimes, as reported by local news agencies. The nation's cyberspace, a vital contributor to the economy through legal E-games and iGaming services, is under threat from cybercriminals. These illicit activities not only jeopardize national revenue but also undermine public confidence in law enforcement, crucial for the development of the gaming industry.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has adopted the National Cybersecurity Plan (NCSP) 2023 to 2028 to bolster anti-cybercrime efforts. This comprehensive plan aims to enhance detection, response, and resolution of cybercrime incidents. As President Marcos stated, “The latest threat that we have is cybercrime, where the emerging and evolving digital landscape faces threats that can undo its potential contribution to national growth.”

In addition to the NCSP, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is set to amend its Cloud First Policy from 2020. The revisions will provide clearer directives on policy coverage, data classification, and data security, ensuring that the nation's digital infrastructure is resilient against cyber threats.

Globe Telecom Inc., a leading local telecommunications provider, is also playing a crucial role in this cybersecurity crackdown. Globe is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to prevent the importation of spoofing devices used in cybercrimes such as SMS scams. Froilan Castelo, Globe’s general counsel, emphasized the need for robust enforcement of laws against spoofing and the proliferation of illegal equipment, saying, “We are working with the government to prevent the importation and use of IMSI catchers, which are the primary tools enabling these security breaches.”

This concerted effort to combat cybercrime coincides with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) plans reported in March to lower rates for both retail and online casinos. By doing so, PAGCOR hopes to attract more investment and license applications, a goal that hinges on strong cybersecurity measures. Supporting this initiative, PAGCOR recently appointed Wilma Eisma as its new President and COO, signaling a fresh approach to the agency’s strategic objectives.

In light of these developments, the importance of robust cybersecurity frameworks has never been more apparent. For businesses and organizations navigating this challenging landscape, partnering with expert cybersecurity providers is essential. Directpath Global Technologies (DGT) stands ready to support these efforts. As a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP), DGT offers a range of services including Mobile Threat Defense (MTD), Extended Detection and Response (XDR), Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT), System Organization Controls Type 2 (SOC2), Vulnerability Risk Management as a Service (VRMaaS), Web Application Firewall (WAF), and Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) services. Additionally, our advanced Artificial Intelligence Division tailors solutions not just for cybersecurity but for various operational needs, providing comprehensive protection and operational efficiency.

The Philippines' proactive stance against cyber threats is a significant step toward safeguarding its digital future. By strengthening cybersecurity measures and fostering collaboration between government and private sectors, the nation is poised to protect its digital assets and enhance its economic growth. As cyber threats evolve, so must our defenses, ensuring that we remain vigilant and resilient in the face of ever-changing digital challenges.

Source: Gambling Insider