Globe Telecoms’ mobile wallet, GCash, has rolled out an ostensibly game-changing security feature safeguarding its users from account takeovers called DoubleSafe.
DoubleSafestrengthens the security of GCash’s 76 million users by preventing unauthorized account access. Prior to DoubleSafe, GCash required two levels of authenticating log ins more known as the two-factor authentication.
The first level of security is the OTP or the one-time PIN, a unique number combination sent only to the user’s mobile number. The second level of authentication is the MPIN (Mobile PIN) which is a 4-digit passcode that only the customer or GCash owner should know.
To reinforce the security of customer accounts, starting this month, GCash requires all users to activate DoubleSafe as an additional layer of security to their account.
This feature is activated at every first login to a new mobile phone to ensure the continued protection of its users. The feature uses facial recognition, which means that even if a user inadvertently shares their MPIN and OTP to fraudsters, their account cannot be accessed from another device without scanning the owner’s face – ultimately preventing account takeovers.
Beyond this security feature, GCash is also closely working with the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) in going after fraudsters and scammers. This was formalized by the signing of a memorandum of agreement in 2022.
“GCash is one with the PNP-ACG in making sure that these cybercriminals are put behind bars while reminding the public on how to safeguard their accounts,” GCash Head of Fraud Management Miguel Geronilla said. “Together with the authorities, other relevant government agencies and our users, we can ensure that GSafeTayo.”
GCash is intensifying its GSafeTayo campaign through a series of awareness and education materials that will help customers identify and avoid fake sellers, suspicious links, as well as other common forms of scams.
