PNP warns vs scams involving water purification products amid El Niño

MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is boosting its monitoring of online scams involving water purification products amid concerns over water shortages linked to El Niño.

PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to intensify surveillance of online activities and investigate individuals or groups that could be exploiting public concerns over water supply through misleading claims and fraudulent marketing schemes.

“Access to safe drinking water is a public concern, and misinformation can put lives and livelihoods at risk,” Nartatez said in a statement. 

“The PNP will investigate individuals or groups that spread misleading claims about water purification products if these are used to defraud the public,” he added. 

The directive follows reports from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) about inaccurate information and speculation circulating online regarding water shortages and water purification products.

As of October 11, El Niño had affected 451,889 individuals, or 121,185 families, in 1,019 barangays across six regions, according to the OCD.

The government has been preparing for prolonged dry conditions by prepositioning water lorries and identifying alternative sources of potable water and irrigation.

Aside from online monitoring, Nartatez has instructed police regional offices and local police units to coordinate with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), local government units, and other concerned agencies in verifying and acting on complaints involving water hoarding, profiteering, and consumer fraud.

“The PNP’s cybercrime and investigation units are monitoring online activities related to possible scams and deceptive schemes arising from the water situation,” Nartatez said. 

The public is urged to remain vigilant against suspicious online sellers and advertisements, particularly those making questionable claims about water purification products.