Stop when you see these signals
- QR or UPI ID not tied to the official organization
- No official campaign page
- Copied images with no original source
- Pressure to donate before verifying
- Personal account collecting for a large charity claim
Donation fraud
Fake Charity Donation Scam
Fake donation posts use urgency and emotion. They may copy real photos, names, and disaster details while replacing the payment destination.
Common script
What the message or call may sound like
Urgent help needed. Donate now through this QR before midnight. Every rupee saves a life.
Mechanism
Why this scam works
People want to help quickly, especially during disasters or medical emergencies.
If this is happening to you
- Donate through the official NGO website or known platform.
- Check whether the campaign exists on official channels.
- Search image/source context before sharing.
- Save suspicious appeals before reporting.
- Do not donate through random QR codes.
- Do not forward emotional posts without source context.
- Do not share private beneficiary details publicly.
- Donation post screenshot
- QR code or UPI ID
- Account name
- Claimed organization details
- Use official donation pages.
- Verify NGO registration and official handles.
- Prefer trusted platforms with receipts.
Run a check
Use Kaval on this pattern
Answers
Common questions
Can a real fundraiser use UPI?
Yes, but verify that the UPI ID or QR belongs to the real person or organization before donating.
Should I forward donation appeals?
Only after checking the source, date, beneficiary, and official payment route.
Guides