The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) recently issued a strong warning against a deceptive Facebook video promoting PH888.COM, a fraudulent online gaming platform falsely claiming to hold a license from the agency.
This misleading ad uses advanced deepfake technology to impersonate prominent figures, including ABS-CBN broadcaster Karen Davila and Pragmatic Play’s Chief Operating Officer Irina Cornides. As a result, PAGCOR raises alarm over the growing use of AI-driven disinformation in online scams.
At first glance, the video starts like a legitimate news report, featuring Davila announcing the launch of PH888.COM in partnership with “Problematic Play,” a fabricated global software provider. The ad falsely promotes the platform as a secure way to win jackpots within a week. However, an AI analysis quickly confirmed the video as a deepfake.
Additionally, the video misuses Pragmatic Play’s official logo, misleading viewers into believing the platform connects to the trusted iGaming provider. The ad includes a clip of Irina Cornides from a genuine 2023 iGaming event interview, but scammers manipulated and dubbed her responses with fabricated Tagalog statements to fit their deceptive narrative.
PAGCOR clarified that PH888.COM does not appear on its list of licensed electronic or offshore gaming operators as of December 18, 2024. Furthermore, the agency confirmed it has never authorized any online gaming platform under the PH888.COM name.
A check on Pragmatic Play’s official website also shows no connection with PH888.COM, which further debunks the platform’s fraudulent claims.
The fake video originated from a Facebook page with just over 1,100 followers. Despite this, it quickly gainedsignificant traction, earning more than 24,300 likes, 3,200 comments, and 352 shares. This rapid spread highlights the serious dangers of disinformation on social media and the risk that unsuspecting users face from such scams.
In response, PAGCOR urged the public to always verify gaming platforms through official channels and to exercise caution when encountering online gaming advertisements. The agency also emphasized the critical role of regulatory vigilance in combating illegal platforms and protecting consumers from increasingly sophisticated digital scams.
