CICC reports 38% decline in cybercrime cases

The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) said on Thursday that cybercrime reports have decreased by 38% this year, a 6% improvement from cases filed last year.

“A 38% overall decline in recorded cybercrime cases nationwide, reflecting how sustained coordination across government is translating into real protection for the public,” the agency said.

The CICC noted that the collective effort across various agencies has contributed to the improvement of cybercrime concerns nationwide. “These results reflect a cybercrime response framework that prioritizes coordination, prevention, and clarity for the public.”

“Rather than operating as a single enforcement unit, the agency focuses on ensuring that cybercrime responses move as one system, not as isolated efforts,” it added.

Among the inter-agency responses credited by the agency is the 1326 hotline, a joint project of the CICC, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), National Privacy Commission (NPC), and National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to help online scam victims file a report and receive feedback within 24 hours.

“These measures help ensure that risks are identified early, the public is guided promptly, and the appropriate agencies are mobilized without delay—reducing the chances of harm during critical periods such as the holiday season,” the CICC said.

“By consolidating information across sectors, the agency helps close response gaps that cybercriminals often exploit—strengthening protection at moments when vigilance matters most,” it added.

Data from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) showed that the number of cases had declined to 8,987 this year, compared to the 14,529 cases reported in the previous year.

DICT Secretary Henry Rhoel R. Aguda said in a statement that the decline indicated the government’s prioritization of curbing cybercrime in the country and the “growing public confidence” in the government’s response to cybercrimes.

The top cybercrime cases reported nationwide include online libel, illegal access, computer-related identity theft and fraud, data interference, system interference or hacking, computer-related forgery, misuse of devices, and illegal interception. — Almira Louise S. Martinez