The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has recorded a significant spike in complaints involving troll accounts and online impersonation, fueled by the rising sophistication of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda revealed in a television interview that the agency has received approximately 700 complaints so far this year—more than double the 300 cases documented in 2025. He attributed this sharp increase to the evolving capabilities of AI tools used for disinformation and financial fraud.
“Dumadami siya dahil gumagaling yung AI tapos ang ginagawa ng AI,” Aguda said.
The Secretary warned that these tools are being utilized to mimic both public figures and private citizens to spread misinformation or execute scams. He noted that deepfake technology has made it difficult for the public to distinguish between authentic and manipulated content.
“Minsan akala mo sila yung nagsasalita tungkol sa isang opinyon pero hindi naman pala,” he added.
According to Aguda, modern fraudulent schemes now utilize AI-generated videos and audio clips to trick victims into believing that high-profile personalities are endorsing gambling sites, investment opportunities, or various financial products.
To combat the trend, the DICT is coordinating closely with major social media platforms. Aguda lauded the responsiveness of companies like Meta and TikTok in purging fraudulent profiles.
“In fairness to them, 97%, natatanggal nila [yung inauthentic account],” Aguda said.
The warning comes as high-profile figures, such as Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, have recently raised the alarm over deepfake videos using their likeness to promote online gambling and bogus investments.