Philippine police seized an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catcher from a former offshore gaming operator (POGO) security personnel during a sting operation in Pasay City. This device, capable of mass SMS broadcasting, may be involved in fraudulent activities.
The head of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), BGen. Bernard Yang, revealed that the suspect had previously advertised the device for sale on social media for 600,000 pesos, attracting law enforcement attention. The police then initiated an undercover operation and successfully carried out the sting on Thursday along Roxas Boulevard.
The device, known as "Stingray" or "fake base station," can mimic legitimate mobile phone towers, tricking nearby phones into connecting. Once connected, the IMSI catcher can capture the device's identification code (IMSI number), allowing for tracking of user location, interception of SMS, calls, and data traffic. As it does not rely on databases, SIM cards, or WiFi, this technology is often used by criminals for SMS scams, political propaganda, or spreading false information.
Officer Yang warned, "If such devices fall into the hands of cybercriminals, they pose a significant threat to the public."
According to investigations, the suspect purchased the device from his former employer. With the Philippine government intensifying crackdowns and shutting down illegal POGO companies, the device might have been used for unlawful activities. The police speculate that the device had previously been used to send out mass messages containing false or misleading links.
The suspect will now face charges for violating national telecommunications regulations and data privacy laws. Regarding the details of the case, the suspect has refused to respond to the media, stating that he will issue a statement through his lawyer. The police are still investigating the specific identity of the related company and continue to probe other illegal uses of the device.
