CRYPTOCURRENCY-RELATED scams accounted for a portion of hundreds of online investment fraud cases reported in 2025, according to data released by the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Records from the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) showed that 311 investment scam cases were recorded from January 1 to December 31, 2025. Of these, 12 cases involved cryptocurrency schemes. PNP data showed that many of the reported scams followed a similar pattern, beginning with offers of unusually high returns to attract investors. Victims were sometimes allowed to withdraw small amounts initially to build trust before access to accounts and supposed earnings was suddenly blocked.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. urged Filipinos to be discerning and verify online investment platforms before committing funds, remaining cautious of promises of guaranteed or unusually high returns. The PNP advised the public to avoid sharing personal banking or account information online and to report suspected scam activities to authorities.
