Public warned: Fake CSC personnel on the prowl

THE Civil Service Commission (CSC) yesterday cautioned the public against transacting with unscrupulous parties misrepresenting themselves as officials or employees of the commission to commit fraud.

Information has reached the CSC that scammers have been using false identifications to fleece the unwary either in person, via phone calls or emails trying to solicit favors or fish for sensitive personal information or documents.

“We have received reports of individuals pretending to be CSC personnel attempting to solicit sums, fish for information, or ask for favors from government offices and even private firms. We are reminding the public to be vigilant by directly verifying the authenticity of the transaction from the CSC Regional or Field Office concerned,” CSC chairperson Karlo Nograles said.

Earlier, the CSC also issued a public advisory warning against individuals and groups fraudulently using the commission’s name and logo for online promotions, solicitations, recruitment, production of materials, and enrollment in review classes.

The latest version of the scam reportedly targets personnel of other government agencies.

In 2020, there were also reports of fake CSC officers harassing government employees through threats of administrative investigations against them and then offering to quash such cases in exchange for cash.

“We warn these individuals that usurpation of authority or falsely representing to be an officer, agent or representative of any department or agency of the Philippine Government is a violation under Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code. The CSC is ready to take action against violators found guilty of this crime as their action undermines the integrity of the agency,” warned Nograles.

In case of suspicious individuals or activities related to the CSC, Nograles appealed to the public to get in touch with its legitimate personnel through its official website, www.csc.gov.ph, or by posting on its official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. The CSC Regional Offices also manage just one Facebook Page.

Likewise, similar encounters with scammers may be reported to the CSC’s Contact Center ng Bayan at 0908-881-6565.