When in doubt, don’t!

Q. Ariel Salazar writes: "A week ago, I received a text message from an unknown person who claimed to be a representative of Haribon Foundation. The message stated that I won a P1 million cash prize from an electronic raffle relative to the foundation’s 30th anniversary celebration.

"To claim the prize, I was instructed to open an account and deposit P20,000 for the processing fee. In addition, I also had to buy four pre-paid Globe cards and text the pin numbers to the sender.

"Of course, I was interested in getting the P1 million. Who wouldn’t be? However, I had doubts about the authenticity of the message.

"I’ve experienced winning in a raffle a few years back. Then, the company only asked for two kinds of identification cards and my winning ticket.

"This kind of promo is kind of doubtful. Please advise me on what to do.

A.Yes, Mr. Salazar, P1 million in, indeed, a big amount. And you were right. Who wouldn’t be interested in claiming it?

Unfortunately, the message you got is absolutely not legitimate. The Department of Trade and Industry does not give permits or approve any promotion with the same scheme to any foundation. Moreover, notification of winners is never made through text messages. Haribon Foundation is a legitimate institution and they have disclaimed such a promotion.

To our dear readers, when similar text messages are received, please verify immediately the office, agency, or institution mentioned in the text message. You can also call the DTI hotline.

(You may send your consumer complaints and comments to the Bureau of Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection, DTI-Domestic Bldg., 361 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City. You may also call us at our consumer hotlines 896-5740 or 890-4938. Our e-mail address is www.e-reklamo.net.ph)