Fake Charity / Disaster Donation Appeal Text Scam Examples
Text messages impersonating charities or emergency relief funds appear after a major disaster, directing you to a fake payment page where donations never reach those in need.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
URGENT: [Disaster] emergency relief appeal. Donate now to help survivors: [fake link]. Every [amount] provides food for a family for a week.
Text GIVE to [shortcode] to donate [amount] to [Fake Charity Name] [Disaster] victims. 100% of funds go direct to relief.
[Charity Name]: Following [disaster event], we need your help now. Click to donate securely: [fake link]. Thank you for your generosity.
You donated to us before — we need your help again for [new disaster]. Quick donate: [fake link]. Unsubscribe reply STOP.
What the scammer wants
To collect donations that go directly to the scammer rather than genuine relief, exploiting public generosity at emotionally charged moments.
Red flags in the message
- Message arrives immediately after a breaking news disaster
- Donation link does not match a known charity's official domain
- Shortcode or number not verifiable on a charity regulator's website
- Request for payment via gift card, crypto, or wire transfer
- Vague about exactly how funds will be used
A safe response
Donate only via a charity's official website, reached by typing the address yourself. Check the charity is registered with your national charity regulator before giving.
What not to send
- Payment via gift card or wire transfer
- Card details on an unverified site
- Donations prompted by unsolicited texts
What to do if you already replied
- Contact your bank if you have shared card details
- Report the fake appeal to your charity regulator and national fraud line
- Donate again directly through a verified charity's official website if you wish
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot the full message or call details
- Note the sender number, email, or profile
- Save any links (without clicking) and payment details
- Record dates and times