PALAWAN State University warned the public against individuals posing to be its president, Dr. Ramon M. Docto, to solicit money under false pretenses.

In a statement, PSU said it has received reports of such cases, noting that any form of communication claiming to represent the university cannot be considered genuine if its purposes are for collecting money.

“It has come to our attention that an individual is engaging in fraudulent activities by impersonating (Dr. Docto) and approaching suppliers/contractors to solicit money under false pretense,” the university said in a statement.

“We strongly urge all suppliers/contractors to exercise extreme caution when dealing with unknown individuals who claim to be affiliated with (PSU), or its officials and personnel. It is important to refrain from providing any personal or financial information in such situations,” it added.

PSU added the school or any of its officials and personnel will never solicit money or disclose bank accounts in that regard.

The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group recorded 19,884 cybercrimes in 2023, more than half of which are online scams or 11,071 cases.

The second most recorded crime is illegal access at 3,181, 1,536 computer-related identity theft, and online libel with 1,342 cases.