Raffy Tulfo Sounds Alarm: Free Wi-Fi Could Be Hacking Your Phone
RAFFY TULFO – Broadcaster-senator Raffy Tulfo exposes the hidden dangers of free Wi-Fi, warning the public about the risks of hacking and data theft when connecting to unsecured networks.
Sen. Raffy Tulfo has called on the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to take decisive action to prevent the hacking of mobile devices connected to public Wi-Fi networks.
During a Senate Committee on Public Services hearing on January 15, Tulfo raised concerns about the increasing incidents of mobile phone hacking linked to public Wi-Fi usage in establishments like malls and restaurants. Representatives from the DICT and major local telecommunications companies attended the hearing.
Raffy Tulfo emphasized the pressing need for secure public Wi-Fi, questioning the current level of security and the government’s measures to protect users. He highlighted the vulnerabilities in public networks, pointing out how hackers could clone devices, access private conversations, and even steal sensitive information such as bank account details.
“Ano ang status ng libreng pampublikong Wi-Fi, gaano ito ka-secure, bakit nangyayari ang pag-hack at kung ano ang ginagawa ng gobyerno para protektahan ang publiko? Wala bang proteksyon para sa publiko mula sa mga hacker ng libreng Wi-Fi sa mga mall?” Tulfo asked, underscoring the urgency of the issue.
The senator tasked the DICT with implementing preventive strategies against hacking and ensuring secure digital infrastructure, particularly in preparation for the upcoming mid-term elections. He also urged the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to monitor public Wi-Fi in malls nationwide and collaborate with the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) to penalize telcos violating consumer protection laws. Tulfo ordered the NTC to submit a comprehensive action plan and report by January 20.
The hearing also delved into discussions on legislative measures aimed at improving telecommunications and internet services in the Philippines, including the Public Telecommunications Policy Act, the Roll-Over Internet Data Act, and the Better Internet Act.
Tulfo’s call to action reflects the growing concern over digital security in the Philippines, where public Wi-Fi is widely used but often lacks robust security measures. With the DICT and other agencies now tasked with addressing these vulnerabilities, the government aims to enhance protections for Filipinos in an increasingly connected world.
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