Online scams falsely claiming to support earthquake relief efforts are on the rise, with scammers using fake accounts to solicit donations from the public, according to volunteers and digital safety advocates involved in the actual relief operations.
Fake social media accounts on Facebook, Messenger, and Telegram are impersonating well-known NGOs, government-linked aid organizations, celebrities, and volunteers to collect money under the pretense of helping earthquake victims. These fraudulent pages often use real images and videos from affected areas, along with emotional messages such as “Support earthquake-hit regions” and “Urgent help needed,” making it difficult for the public to distinguish between real and fake appeals.
“It’s hard to tell what’s real and what’s fake. The most important thing is not to trust too easily. People should only donate to verified sources they know and trust, and take time to verify authenticity,” said one volunteer working on the ground.
In addition to deception, the scammers are reportedly pressuring people to transfer money directly to mobile banking accounts via platforms such as Kpay, Wave Money, and True Money.
Digital rights activists say they are coordinating with social media platforms to remove the fraudulent accounts, but the process takes time due to the need for proper procedures and evidence.
“We’re in communication with the platforms, but it takes time. At the same time, people can help by reporting fake pages and warning others to be careful,” said one digital advocate involved in the efforts.
The public is encouraged to report fake donation pages and share warnings with others to prevent further exploitation.
Similar scams also occurred last year during floods in regions such as Bago, Yangon, Mon, and Karen States, where scammers collected donations online under the guise of flood relief efforts.
Currently, aftershocks continue to shake areas including Mandalay, Sagaing, Naypyitaw, Inle, and eastern Bago. Both local and international organizations are providing ongoing support, including direct rescue operations and financial assistance.
According to official junta data published in state-run media, the nationwide earthquake death toll has reached 3,145 people, with the highest number 2,053 deaths recorded in the Mandalay Region.
