DICT to monitor possible cyberattack on Nov 5, warns public of ‘Traffic Flood’

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has announced that it will be on alert for a possible cyberattack, specifically a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attempt, on November 5. In a Facebook post, the DICT warned the public about a potential ‘traffic flood,’ where multiple compromised devices could overload a website or server, causing it to slow down or become inaccessible to legitimate users on Sunday, November 2. The department, however, assured citizens that their money, personal accounts and data will not be stolen, emphasizing a DDoS attack does not include data theft or breaches. Under Oplan Cyberdome, DICT, alongside the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and other law enforcement agencies are working to take immediate action to protect online platforms. The agency’s National Computer Emergency Response Team (NCERT) will also monitor and ensure the safety of digital space. The agency encouraged the public to use official apps and status pages, follow verified instructions, try the website later and avoid illegal online activities. In addition, it advised to report any anomalies at 1326@dict.gov.ph or calling the 1326 hotline. The department reminded citizens to stay alert, calm and be responsible in using the internet.