SSS warns members vs. fraudulent text messages

Officials of the Social Security System warned its members against a text message announcing a payment scheme known as WiMax, which they said is fraudulent.

SSS president Corazon dela Paz, in an advisory, said that members should only make payments in SSS regional offices and not through any payment scheme which their agency had not introduced.

“Members should make sure they pay only to legitimate collection channels such as SSS tellers in branch offices, accredited banks and Bayad Centers,” De la Paz said.

The said text message reportedly reads, “Ka WiMax! SSS Member k n b? Starting Sept. 24, Maaari k ng Mag BAYAD ng SSS Contribution mo using WiMax Ewallet. With WiMax, Convenient na! Kikita ka pa!”

SSS said this text message has been sent from a personal number and members should be vigilant and report to any SSS branch should they receive such message.

At present, SSS does not have an e-wallet facility but it is considering tie-ups with telecommunication networks to allow members to send and receive money through text messages.

De la Paz also urged members to be extra cautious in giving away their SSS numbers to prevent their accounts from being used by other people.

The SSS is currently investigating the source of the false messages. – Jasmin R. Uy/QSB