The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has issued a warning about a deceptive Facebook video promoting PH888.COM, a fraudulent online gaming platform falsely claiming to be licensed by the agency.
The misleading ad uses deepfake technology to impersonate well-known personalities, including ABS-CBN broadcaster Karen Davila and Pragmatic Play’s Chief Operating Officer Irina Cornides, raising alarm over the increasing use of AI-driven disinformation in online scams.
The video begins with what appears to be a legitimate news report featuring Davila announcing PH888.COM’s launch in partnership with “Problematic Play,” a fictitious global software provider. The ad falsely promotes the platform as a secure way to win jackpots within a week. However, an AI analysis confirmed that the video is a deepfake.
The video also misuses Pragmatic Play’s logo, misleading viewers into believing the platform is affiliated with the reputable iGaming provider. The ad features a clip of Irina Cornides from a legitimate 2023 iGaming event interview, but her responses were manipulated and dubbed with fabricated Tagalog statements to fit the scam’s narrative.
PAGCOR clarified that PH888.COM is not included in its list of licensed electronic or offshore gaming operators as of December 18, 2024. The agency also confirmed it has not authorized any online gaming platforms under the PH888.COM name.
A search of Pragmatic Play’s official website shows no affiliation with PH888.COM, further debunking the platform’s claims.
The fraudulent video was posted by a Facebook page with over 1,100 followers and has gained significant traction, with more than 24,300 likes, 3,200 comments, and 352 shares. The rapid spread of the ad highlights the dangers of disinformation on social media and the risk of unsuspecting users falling victim to scams.
PAGCOR urged the public to verify gaming platforms through official channels and exercise caution when encountering online gaming promotions. The agency also emphasized the importance of regulatory vigilance in combating illegal platforms and protecting consumers from increasingly sophisticated digital scams.
