After issuing a warning to online platforms that they are also liable to online scams, DTI is pushing for the passage of the Internet Transactions Act to protect both online merchants and customers.

DTI explained that with the Internet Transactions Act, there will be mechanisms that will safeguard both merchants and customers with all their online transactions. These include being given trustmarks to merchants to ensure that they uphold the rights of consumers and do business responsibly. Any website, online application, social media account, or similar platform violating the law will be made inaccessible in the Philippines for 30 days.

“Under the ITA, persons involved in e-commerce who purposely utilize the Philippine market will be considered to be conducting business within the country. Consequently, they will need to adhere to all applicable laws and regulations in the Philippines,” DTI Undersecretary Ruth Castelo said.

While waiting for the passage of the Internet Transactions Act, the DTI urges consumers to be extra vigilant and careful, especially with online transactions. DTI’s Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB) received 27,947 complaints in 2022, where 12,170, or around 44% involved online transactions. Of those complaints involving online transactions, 2,484 were resolved while 9,093 were referred to the appropriate agencies. 394 of them were withdrawn, and 199 complainants were issued Certificates to File Action.

Other efforts that the DTI is doing to combat online scams include educating customers and coordinating with the PNP and NBI.