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Converge Blocks 183 Billion Attempts to Access Banned Sites in 2024

Converge ICT Solutions Inc., a leading provider of fiber broadband and technology services in the Philippines, took significant strides in 2024 to bolster its network security, successfully blocking a staggering 183 billion attempts to access illegal websites. This figure marks a substantial increase compared to previous years, with the company’s efforts to combat cybercrime reaching new heights, according to Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Andrew T. Malijan.

Describing the Converge network as a “digital fortress,” Malijan revealed that the company’s security systems were reinforced in 2024 to fend off malicious access attempts. The 183 billion blocked attempts targeted over 683,000 URLs and domains flagged as illicit, covering categories like Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM), Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), phishing, online gambling, and voyeurism.

“Our response to growing threats is dynamic. In 2024, we added 150,000 URLs to our system flagged as unlawful, nearly 20 times the number of blocked attempts in 2021-2023, which averaged around 10-12 billion attempts annually,” explained Malijan.

Of the illegal sites, CSAM and OSAEC materials accounted for nearly 98% of the blocked attempts, followed by online gambling sites. Malijan noted that the increase in cybercrime attempts might be tied to artificial intelligence (AI), which has revolutionized the tactics of hackers and malicious agents.

“AI is driving these attacks, and malicious agents are no longer relying on manual methods. As a response, we are leveraging AI internally to stay ahead in the race to protect our network,” said Converge’s Chief Executive Adviser and tech expert Eugene Yeo. He further emphasized that while AI-powered tools strengthen network security, educating users on safe online practices remains the best defense against such threats.

In line with its commitment to safeguarding its users, Converge has partnered with several organizations to address online safety and child protection. Since 2022, Converge has collaborated with the Stairway Foundation, a Philippine-based NGO focused on promoting children’s rights. This partnership aids in the prevention of OSAEC by blocking access to sites hosting CSAM, thus disrupting harmful networks and limiting the risk of revictimization.

Ysrael Diloy, Child Protection Specialist at the Stairway Foundation, underscored the importance of these efforts: “Blocking access to websites hosting CSAM plays a crucial role in protecting children. ISPs like Converge help limit the spread of such materials, while reinforcing accountability across the digital ecosystem.”

Through constant collaboration with law enforcement agencies such as the Philippine National Police (PNP) and international organizations like the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), Converge has expanded its database of illicit content and blocked harmful URLs from its network.

While the cybersecurity landscape remains challenging, Senior Vice President and Corporate Compliance Officer Atty. Laurice Esteban-Tuason emphasized the company’s strong stance on upholding privacy and human rights, particularly for children in the digital space. “Our commitment to sustainability includes recognizing the critical role of cybersecurity in protecting both our customers and the digital ecosystem. By proactively blocking malicious sites, we reduce the environmental impact of cyber threats and contribute to a safer internet for everyone,” she said.

Converge’s ongoing efforts to protect its customers and secure its digital environment reflect a steadfast commitment to creating a safer online space for all users. As the company continues to refine its policies and strengthen its security infrastructure, it remains a key player in the fight against cybercrime and child exploitation.

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