Watch Your Back: Modus Operandi on the Streets
With the recent uproar caused by the infamous latest modus operandi tanim-bala in the NAIA airports, it is no wonder that locals and tourists alike are taking precautions and an extra wary eye of their surroundings, going as far as wrapping luggage in plastic. The unsuspecting victims are said to be chosen from various security cameras installed all over the airport. Next thing you know, there is a bullet implanted inside your bag and you are face-to-face with the security personnel without really knowing what your offense is.
Taking its roots from Latin, and used most often in criminal investigations and police reports, modus operandi refers to the way of operation or how things are operated especially in organized crime. Due to the culture of crimes evident in news television programs, Filipinos have become extra cautious and wary on their way home from school or work as there is no assurance that one will not become the next victim. More often than not, crimes and operations are planned beforehand to ensure foolproof swindling.
One of the most common methods is ATM (Automated Teller Machine) scam. With card readers and fake PIN pad overlays sold cheaply online with instruction manuals, ATM holders have to be extra careful when and where to withdraw money. It is encouraged that one covers the keypad when typing the PIN. Drop the transaction when there are suspicious activities around the area. Only use ATM machines that are in guarded well-lit areas as to avoid the preying eyes of scammers.
With the viral posts about taxi drivers with flaring tempers, it is advisable that passengers become alert with their every move. If possible, only grab a cab when urgently needed, even from Uber and GrabTaxi. Immediately ask to be dropped off when the taxi goes unknown roads and streets. Avoid sleeping to be alert on instances of the spray modus. Text a family member or a friend, or take a photo of the plate number and ID of the driver just in case there is breach of the contract of carriage.
Internet scams, on the other hand, uses the power of technology to swindle money. Examples are social media posts with dubious links and spam emails that intend to steal credit card details. There are also suspicious ads that may induce purchases, promos and free trials that, in the end, have conditions and consequences which may result to having a password stolen.
Salisi gangs are typically found in malls, shopping centers, restaurants and places that are generally crowded. They blend in and get the attention of their victims, and their accomplices complete the modus: stealing valuables. It is advised to never leave things unattended.
Hypnotism is the trick of the Budol-budol gang. They manage to have people hand them their money, jewellery and other valuables without the victims realizing that they have done so. To prevent cases like this, do not talk to strangers and do not be complacent even for a minute. Refuse suspicious offers.
Winning the lottery and asking money for relatives caught in an accident are some of the common themes in text scams. Though others go as far as replying and exposing the crime, it is advisable to simply ignore the text messages. One may verify the content by calling a close relative or contacting the person who is said to be in an accident to verify.
It is said that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure, and by knowing the various modus that are in operation in the streets, it is indeed better to be safe than sorry.
Article by: Arvee Gomez
Photo courtesy of: carlkingdom.com
Sources:
8 Different types of ATM fraud everyone should be aware of. (2015, May 18). Retrieved from http://www.thinkpesos.com/8-different-types-of-atm-fraud-everyone-should-be-aware-of/
Esperas, R. (2015, October 30). How victims are spotted in ‘tanim-bala’ modus. Retrieved from http://news.abs-cbn.com/focus/10/30/15/how-victims-are-spotted-in-tanim-bala-modus
Muzones, G. (2015, July 21). Top 10 Scams and Modus Operandi That Every Filipino Needs to Know. Retrieved from http://blog.pawnhero.ph/top-10-scams-and-modus-operandi-that-every-filipino-needs-to-know/
