MANILA, Philippines — Authorities have arrested a man accused of falsifying payment proofs amounting to ₱25 million, in what investigators described as a large-scale online scam targeting gadget distributors and resellers. 

The suspect was apprehended in Pasay City during an entrapment operation conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation–Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD).

According to reports, the suspect’s modus involved editing screenshots of supposed bank transfers and sending them to online sellers as proof of payment. Using these falsified documents, he was able to acquire high-value gadgets, including Apple products, without actually paying for them. 

The NBI said the suspect was caught in flagrante delicto while attempting to finalize another fraudulent transaction using a falsified check.

Investigators revealed that the scheme had been ongoing for months, with losses from distributors and resellers estimated at ₱25 million. 

“The suspect duped gadget distributors and resellers by presenting fake proof of payments, allowing him to walk away with millions worth of Apple products,” the NBI said in a statement.

The arrest highlights the growing prevalence of online fraud in the Philippines, particularly schemes that exploit digital transactions and electronic payment systems. 

Authorities have urged businesses and individuals to remain vigilant, verify payment receipts thoroughly, and report suspicious activities to law enforcement.

The suspect is now facing charges of estafa and falsification of documents. The NBI confirmed that further investigation is underway to determine if other individuals were involved in the scam and to recover the stolen gadgets.

This case underscores the importance of cybersecurity awareness and the need for stricter safeguards in online commerce, as fraudsters continue to exploit digital platforms to carry out high-value scams.