As AI-driven cyber threats surge in Asia, industry leaders are urging a reassessment of national cybersecurity strategies. Jen Capones-Tongco, CEO of Netrust Philippines, highlighted the increasing vulnerability of groups such as overseas Filipino workers and the elderly, who are prime targets for advanced scams. She is leading a global initiative known as Cyber Resilient Pilipinas for Every Juan in the World, which aims to enhance digital safety awareness among Filipinos globally.
The landscape of cyber threats is evolving rapidly, with attackers employing artificial intelligence to automate operations and generate deepfakes for impersonation. A notable example involves the use of deepfake technology to impersonate business figure Ramon Ang in fraudulent schemes, illustrating the difficulty in distinguishing real from fake. Capones-Tongco warned that these AI-enabled scams threaten to undermine trust in digital systems, disproportionately impacting Filipino families.
Netrust is committed to addressing these challenges, offering comprehensive cybersecurity solutions that include vulnerability assessments and the establishment of security operations centers. Capones-Tongco believes that cybersecurity is not solely a corporate issue but a national obligation that affects all Filipinos. She advocates for a cultural shift towards vigilant cybersecurity practices that go beyond mere compliance.