Hi everyone, I really need advice, help, and guidance regarding a scam lending app situation.
I’m a working student and I recently encountered a fake lending app pretending to be connected to Tala. At first, I trusted it because it used the Tala name and logo. During the process, I was asked to pay a ₱600 “deferral fee,” which I unfortunately paid because I believed it was part of the loan process.
After checking everything carefully and reading reviews online, I realized it was actually a scam. The app had misleading charges, abusive repayment terms, and many complaints from people saying they experienced harassment and threats. Now I’m extremely worried about my safety and privacy because the app may have access to my phone number, contacts, or personal information.
As a working student, this situation has been very stressful for me mentally and emotionally. I’m especially scared of possible public shaming, harassment, or my contacts being messaged if the scammers decide to misuse my information.
I already started gathering screenshots and reporting the incident, but I really need help and guidance on what to do next.
- What should I do immediately to protect myself?
- Should I change passwords, SIM, or bank accounts?
- Has anyone here experienced something similar?
- What agencies should I report this to in the Philippines?
- Any advice, assistance, or steps I should take would really help me right now. Thank you.