Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Quezon City

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. _827

Introduced by Hon. Julienne L. Baronda

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The exponential growth of e-commerce has provided unparalleled convenience to
consumers; however, it has also given rise to an increase in online scams and fraudulent
activities.

This legislation is crafted with the primary purpose and intent of protecting buyers
who engage in online transactions by establishing penalties for online scammers involved in
fraudulent activities. The act aims to enhance consumer trust and security in e-commerce,
deter fraudulent practices, and provide legal recourse for buyers adversely affected by online
scams. It criminalizes various forms of online scams, including but not limited to fraudulent
product listings, phishing schemes, and false advertising. It clearly defines the scope of
activities that constitute online scams and outlines corresponding penalties for offenders. To
deter repeated fraudulent activities, the legislation proposes enhanced penalties for
individuals identified as repeat offenders. This includes escalating fines, imprisonment, or a
combination of both, depending on the severity and frequency of the offenses.

In conclusion, the Online Scammer Accountability and Buyer Protection Act is a
crucial step toward addressing the challenges posed by online scams. By establishing
penalties and legal recourse mechanisms, this representation aims to create a secure and fair
environment for online buyers, ultimately fostering a robust and trustworthy e-commerce

ecosystem.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

Rep. Julienne “Jam” L. Baronda
District Representative


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. _ $27

Introduced by Hon. Julienne L. Baronda

AN ACT ESTABLISHING MEASURES TO PROTECT BUYERS FROM ONLINE
SCAMMERS

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. - Short Title. - This act shall be known as the “Online Scammer
Accountability Act."

SECTION 2. Definition of Terms. - As used in this Act, the following terms shall mean:
a) Online Scammer - An individual or entity that engages in deceptive, fraudulent, or
dishonest practices with the intent to defraud buyers in online transactions.

b) Buyer - An individual or entity that makes a purchase in an online transaction.

c) Online Store - Any website, mobile application, or electronic platform that facilitates the

sale of goods or services to buyers

SECTION 3. Prohibited Activities. - Online scammers shall not engage in the following
activities:

a, False advertising or misrepresentation of products or services;

b. Non-delivery of purchased items;

c. Delivery of counterfeit or misrepresented goods;

d. Unauthorized use of personal or financial information; and,

e. Any other deceptive or fraudulent practices with the intent to defraud buyers.

SECTION 4. Penalties for Online Scammers. - Online scammers found guilty of engaging

in prohibited activities as outlined in Section 3 shall be subject to penalties, including but not

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limited to fines, restitution to affected buyers, and imprisonment, as determined by the
severity of the offense in addition to any criminal act that they may have committed under the
Revised Penal Code. Repeat offenders may face more severe penalties, including longer

imprisonment terms and higher fines.

SECTION 5. Reporting and Investigation. - Buyers who believe they have fallen victim to
online scammers shall have the right to report the fraudulent activity to relevant law
enforcement agencies and regulatory authorities. Law enforcement agencies shall be
responsible for investigating reports of online scams and taking appropriate legal action

against the perpetrators.

SECTION 6. Enforcement. - Regulatory authorities overseeing e-commerce and online
transactions shall enforce this law, ensuring compliance and taking legal action against online
scammers. Sellers or online stores found to be complicit in online scams may also face

penalties and legal action, including fines and restrictions on their business operations.
SECTION 7. Public Awareness and Education. - The government shall initiate public
awareness campaigns and educational programs to inform buyers about potential online

scams and how to protect themselves when making online purchases.

SECTION 8. Effective Date. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its

publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation and the Official Gazette.

Approved.