Case Study: PLDT and Smart Communications protect children online with Palo Alto Networks

PLDT and Smart Communications block over 1 billion CSAM access attempts in real time with Palo Alto Networks

PLDT, Inc. and its subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc., a major telecommunications provider in the Philippines, faced the challenge of building a fully automated Child Protection Platform to block traffic related to Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM). They needed a custom-built cybersecurity solution that could provide granular visibility and control without infringing on Philippine privacy laws, which prevent ISPs from actively sifting through network information. They partnered with Palo Alto Networks to address this requirement.

Palo Alto Networks implemented a solution using its Machine Learning Next-Generation Firewalls (ML-NGFWs) with Cloud-Delivered Security Services, including Threat Prevention, Advanced URL Filtering, and WildFire, integrated with Cortex XSOAR. This platform allowed PLDT and Smart to block over one billion access attempts to blacklisted URLs in real-time within eight months, achieving strict regulatory compliance and creating a safer online environment for children.