Philippines Cracks Down on Illegal Text Blaster Trade Amid Rising Smishing Threats

• •PNP intensifies crackdown on illegal text blasters linked to former POGO operations.
• •Smishing incidents surged over 400% in 2025, exploiting high mobile penetration.
• •Text blasters can bypass network security, posing a significant threat to mobile users.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified efforts against the illegal trade of text blasters, devices used for mass SMS phishing (smishing). These devices, previously utilized by now-defunct Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), are being sold on social media and e-commerce platforms by former employees. The PNP reported a rise in smishing incidents, with phishing sites increasing by over 400% in 2025. Recent operations led to the arrest of suspects in Parañaque and Cavite, where multiple 32-port units were seized. Authorities are concerned about the devices' ability to bypass traditional network security by acting as fake cell towers. The crackdown aims to prevent the proliferation of these devices, which are linked to significant financial losses for Filipinos. The PNP has ordered 24/7 cyber patrols to monitor online marketplaces for these illegal sales.