NBI Raids Online Lending App Office in Makati — Charged with Threatening Debtors Using Mass Text Blaster

NBI Raids Online Lending App Office in Makati — Charged with Threatening Debtors Using Mass Text Blaster

📌 On Friday, October 23, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) announced that it raided the office of an online lending app company in Makati City and seized an illegal mass text blaster. The company is accused of threatening debtors and contacting debtors' acquaintances to pressure them into repaying their loans.

■ Incident Details
· According to GMA, when NBI agents entered, nearly 100 employees were working in the office. Inquirer reported that about 80 people were taken into custody (reports vary).
· On site, agents seized a mass text blaster prohibited by law, several SIM cards inserted into it, and equipment used to operate the lending app.
· The blaster was used to send large volumes of app promotion texts and repayment reminder texts. Staff reportedly also contacted people in debtors' phone contacts who were not permitted to be contacted.
· According to Inquirer, employees threatened that if debts were not paid, police would be sent to debtors' homes or their personal information would be spread.

■ Investigation and Current Status
· The company faces multiple charges. The NBI is investigating whether extortion occurred and looking into cybercrime-related financial crimes. The company's name and the exact location of the raid have not been disclosed.
· NBI Director Medel Marti Bagas called the conduct "extortion" and said it is a serious problem, as debtors are being harmed during difficult economic times.

■ Notes for Residents and Travelers
· When installing a lending app, it is safer not to use it if it requests access to your contacts or photos.
· If you are threatened during debt collection, such as with police visits or public disclosure of personal information, capture the messages and report them to the police or NBI.

■ Sources
GMA News (10/23), Inquirer (10/23)