The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has issued a public advisory warning against a fraudulent entity named “UNA Financing Corporation,” which is reportedly misusing the central bank’s name and logo to deceive individuals.
The central bank stated that UNA Financing Corporation is fraudulently claiming to secure BSP clearance for loan releases. This scheme involves the collection of fees and personal information from unsuspecting victims.
The central bank emphasized that it has no affiliation or dealings with UNA Financing Corporation, whatsoever.
“The BSP clarifies that it is not connected to, and has no dealings with, UNA Financing Corporation,” the advisory stated. “The central bank further emphasizes that in performing its official functions, neither the central bank nor its personnel will solicit money or request information that could compromise financial accounts.”
According to Fintech innovator WeFund Lending Corp., the driving force behind the popular JuanHand app, the online lending platform currently boasts two million active borrowers, with a staggering 16 million individuals having registered for its services.
BSP issues guidelines to protect yourself from the scam
In line with this, the central bank is urging the public to exercise extreme caution and take the following steps to protect themselves from this scam:
- Refrain from sending money to unverified accounts.
- Avoid transacting with entities and individuals falsely representing themselves as officers, employees, or agents of the central bank.
- Verify the information they receive from entities and individuals claiming to be connected with the central bank.
- Report any illegal activity to law enforcement agencies.
The BSP is actively working to combat such fraudulent activities and encourages the public to report any suspicious claims or representations involving the central bank.
Reports can be made to law enforcement agencies or directly to the central bank through the following channels:
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
Address: A. Mabini St. cor. P. Ocampo St., Malate, Manila, Philippines
Contact Number: (+632) 8811-1277 or 8811-1BSP
E-mail Address: bspmail@bsp.gov.ph
This warning serves as a reminder to the public to remain vigilant and to take necessary precautions to avoid falling victim to financial scams. The central bank is committed to protecting the public and maintaining the integrity of the financial system.