GCash users report unauthorized withdrawals, company assures 'accounts are safe'

The mobile wallet app GCash is facing scrutiny after multiple users reported unauthorized withdrawals from their accounts.

On Saturday, Nov. 9, some users received text messages from GCash urging them to change their MPIN and assuring them of a refund within 24 hours due to detected unusual activity.

Users like actress Pokwang publicly shared her ordeal, revealing that P85,000 was stolen from her GCash account.

The comedian posted on Instagram screenshots of her account, with the caption: "Naghahanap buhay po ako ng marangal nagbibigay po ako ng hanap buhay sa mga single mom, tapos isang umaga pagka gising mo simot ang laman ng GCASH accnt???"

She said that around 30 unregistered cellphone numbers claimed the money from her account. She also raised concerns about the effectiveness of the SIM card registration policy.

"Nakakaiyak binangon ko mag isa ang negosyong pinabayaan ng taong inasahan ko pinag katiwalaan ko pati ba naman dito naisahan parin ako? nakakaiyak talaga sana naman," she continued. She pleased GCash to help people like her who are not only working, but also providing employment opportunities.

In the comments section, Dreamscape publicity head Eric John Salut said it has happened to him too. He lost around P45,000.

"Pero mababawi mo yan mars," he assured.

GCash has responded to the issue, reassuring users that their money is safe.

"A few GCash users were affected due to errors in an ongoing system reconciliation process," they wrote in a statement signed by Gilda Maquilan
VP and Head of Corporate Communications. "This incident was isolated to a few users, and we assure our customers that their accounts are safe."

GCash has confirmed that they have identified and contacted users whose accounts were compromised. The company is actively working to adjust affected wallets.

Last month, the company scheduled system maintenance for all services for two hours on Oct. 22 and 24.