Authorities Arrest Online Seller for Selling Text Blast Machines from Closed POGO Firms
A 36-year-old online seller was arrested for allegedly selling illegal text blast machines believed to have come from former POGO companies.
The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG) in Taguig City conducted the entrapment operation last July 20, 2025, which led to the arrest of the suspect.
According to PNP ACG Director Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang, the suspect, known by the alias “Kian,” was caught selling the devices online without the proper permits.
“The suspect is an online seller, but the source of this text blaster machine is from former POGO companies,” PNP ACG Director Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang said.
According to authorities, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) confirmed that he had no authority to own or sell the machines.
“Upon certification from the NTC (National Telecommunications Commission), he has no authority to possess and sell these,” he added.
Text blast machines are often used in scams. These devices send out mass text messages containing fake links that trick people into giving away sensitive information such as bank details, credit card numbers, and personal data.
During the operation, police recovered 11 text blast machines from the suspect. He was reportedly selling each unit for around P25,000 to P30,000. These machines are highly sought after in the underground market because of their ability to send hundreds or even thousands of messages at once.
The suspect is now under the custody of the Taguig City Police. He will face charges for violating the Philippine Radio Control Law and certain provisions under the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
Authorities remind the public to be extra cautious when receiving suspicious messages and avoid clicking unknown links, especially from unverified numbers. Meanwhile, the police continue to track other possible sellers connected to the same illegal activity, aiming to stop the spread of tools often used in cybercrimes.
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