QR code scam suspect targeting stores arrested at Romblon port

ODIONGAN, Romblon — Authorities arrested a suspect allegedly involved in a QR code scam that victimized several stores in Sibuyan Island, Romblon after he was apprehended at Romblon Port on Thursday, April 9.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Ledilyn Ambonan, Romblon Police Provincial Office spokesperson, said the suspect went around stores on the island requesting cash-in transactions using an E-Wallet QR code.

After the transactions, some store owners later discovered unauthorized withdrawals from their accounts.

Two stores reported losses, including one in Barangay Campalingo, San Fernando, Sibuyan, where consecutive withdrawals were recorded through Lazada transactions amounting to P1,000 and four separate withdrawals of P10,000 each, totaling P41,000.

Another store in Poblacion reported four unauthorized transactions worth P20,000 each, reaching a total of P80,000.

Authorities suspect the QR code used in the transactions contained a phishing link that may have gained access to the victims’ accounts after being scanned.

The suspect was arrested inside a RORO vessel at Romblon Port after allegedly attempting to leave the island.

He will face charges of swindling or estafa, violation of Republic Act No. 12010 or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act of 2024, and Republic Act No. 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Investigation is ongoing, while Romblon Police Provincial Office urged the public, particularly stores offering cash-in and cash-out services, to exercise caution when using QR codes and ensure that transactions are verified before proceeding.