MANILA, Philippines — The justice department has issued a public advisory for those at the end of harassment and unlawful debt collection practices from online lending companies. An advisory will also serve as warning to online lending companies not to engage in unlawful acts in debt collection. Section 28 meanwhile states that processing of personal information and sensitive personal information for unauthorized purposes shall be penalized with imprisonment and fine up to P2 million. In cases of malicious disclosure of personal information or sensitive personal information, and when guarantors or co-makers are contacted, they may file complaint before the privacy watchdog. Victims of unlawful debt collection practices are also encouraged to report the online lending company to the PNP-Anti-Cybercrime Group, NBI-Cybercrime Division, NPC, and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Source: Philippine Star April 26, 2021 04:41 UTC