29/08/2026
PRESS RELEASE | NBI SEIZES TWO SUSPECTED IMSI CATCHERS IN CAVITE INTERDICTION
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), through its Special Action Unit (SAU), conducted an interdiction operation against a suspected illegal International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catcher and text blaster operation in Imus, Cavite, resulting in the seizure of two (2) IMSI catcher devices.
The operation stemmed from real-time technical monitoring and surveillance of data transmissions traced to a residential property at Block 19, Lot 36, Kensington 22, Lancaster Subdivision, Imus, Cavite. The monitoring led investigators to a Honda Accord bearing plate number ZNV 350, which was associated with data transmissions from the area.
As part of the investigation, SAU operatives conducted surveillance and gathered information indicating the possible use of unauthorized telecommunications equipment. Among the findings were the installation and use of external antennas, localized detection of SMS phishing or “smishing” transmissions, and the presence of suspected IMSI catcher equipment inside the subject vehicle.
During the interdiction, operatives recovered one (1) fully operational IMSI catcher assembly from inside the Honda Accord. A second IMSI catcher unit was subsequently discovered and seized within the subject residential premises.
IMSI catchers, also known as rogue base stations or fake cell towers, can mimic legitimate telecommunications facilities and may be used to identify mobile devices within a particular area. When used for illicit purposes, such equipment may pose risks to subscriber privacy, telecommunications security, and the public by facilitating the interception of mobile communications or the transmission of fraudulent text messages.
The suspected operation may constitute violations of existing Philippine laws and regulations governing cybercrime, telecommunications, data privacy, and radio-frequency use, including the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (R.A. No. 10175), Philippine Radio Control Law (R.A. No. 3846), Data Privacy Act of 2012 (R.A. No. 10173), SIM Registration Act (R.A. No. 11934), and applicable regulations of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), including NTC Memorandum Order No. 01-02-2013.
The seized devices and other evidence will be subjected to appropriate examination and documentation as the NBI continues its investigation to determine the extent and purpose of the suspected operation and identify those who may be responsible.
NBI Director Atty. Melvin A. Matibag reminds the public to remain vigilant against suspicious text messages, particularly those requesting personal information, account credentials, financial details, or links to unfamiliar websites.
He likewise encouraged the public to report suspected mobile-based scams and other cyber-related activities to the proper authorities. “The NBI remains committed to protecting the public from emerging threats that exploit telecommunications technology and to pursuing individuals involved in activities that compromise the security, privacy, and safety of the Filipino people,” he added.
