As <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.wionews.com/world/crisis-profiteers-scammers-turn-turkey-syria-earthquake-to-a-money-swindling-opportunity-561702/">observers have pointed out, the creator of this page donated to his own fund to increase the figure and make it appear more convincing! There are many similar fake funding pages. Two red flags to watch out for are: suspiciously low amounts of money donated so far, and if they claim to be based in Turkey — which is highly unlikely.</p>\r\n<p>In response to these fake pages, <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/paypal-and-twitter-abused-in-turkey-relief-donation-scams//">PayPal has stated:</p>"}},{"_template":"Articles\\ImageFull","_identifier":"block-108111","data":{"image":"https://whitelabel-manager-production.ams3.digitaloceanspaces.com/thumbs/aa-7-860aa.png_900x.png"}},{"_template":"Articles\\Text","_identifier":"block-108113","data":{"text":"<h2>Turkey Earthquake TikTok Scams</h2>"}},{"_template":"Articles\\ImageFull","_identifier":"block-108126","data":{"image":"https://whitelabel-manager-production.ams3.digitaloceanspaces.com/thumbs/aa-8-f8ab4.png_900x.png"}},{"_template":"Articles\\Text","_identifier":"block-108128","data":{"text":"<p style=\"padding-left: 240px;\">Source: TikTok</p>\r\n<p>The image on the left has been making the rounds on TikTok and purports to show a child victim of the earthquake — accompanying it are pleas for donations and various tugs of the heartstrings. Unfortunately, this picture is unrelated: it was taken during the Afrin campaign during a phase of the Syrian Civil War.</p>\r\n<p>In response to posts like this, TikTok has <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://uk.news.yahoo.com/scammers-create-fake-donations-turkey-222735646.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAALIM29Lp2D0jGZ5912KpAlU5cC2_b83jQ4Ic0ckTt91ByTeS0-G_eNHjZaO5MwBGzTrnUvSumuBFBvZxew_2lcTsHrXmnR8FIzw3HaF--gtXT16nHMJqaHM70J_S2CNIyxMlqolm4EFvQjjfKcCj7tjy26y5hoKDqLaA30BumCtL\%22>stated:
%22}},{%22_template%22:%22Articles\\ImageFull%22,%22_identifier%22:%22block-108141%22,%22data%22:{%22image%22:%22https://whitelabel-manager-production.ams3.digitaloceanspaces.com/thumbs/aa-9-3421a.png_900x.png%22}},{%22_template%22:%22Articles\\Text%22,%22_identifier%22:%22block-108143%22,%22data%22:{%22text%22:%22What You Can Do</h2>\r\n<p>To summarize, watch out for the above schemes — don’t let the scammers get away with it. Remember to do your research, and stick to the big names. For further reference, this Middle-Eastern news website has published a good <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://english.alarabiya.net/News/middle-east/2023/02/16/Con-artists-exploiting-Turkey-Syria-earthquake-to-scam-donations-online-Report/">article with some helpful suggestions for who to donate to.</p>\r\n<p>We would encourage readers to use our<strong> FREE </strong><a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://api.link.trendmicro.com/events/landing-page?product_id=4cc29&source=blog&utm_content=turkey-earthquake-charity-scams\%22>Trend Micro Check</a> tool and detect scams with ease: Trend Micro Check is an all-in-one browser extension and mobile app for detecting scams, phishing attacks, malware, and dangerous links.</p>"}},{"_template":"Articles\\ImageText","_identifier":"block-108156","data":{"image":"https://whitelabel-manager-production.ams3.digitaloceanspaces.com/thumbs/aa-10-4c5ae.png_900x.png","text":"http://<p>After you’ve pinned the Trend Micro Check extension, it will block dangerous sites automatically! (Available on Safari, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.) </p>","reverseOrder":false}},{"_template":"Articles\\ImageText","_identifier":"block-108170","data":{"image":"https://whitelabel-manager-production.ams3.digitaloceanspaces.com/thumbs/aa-11-f5153.png_900x.png","text":"http://<p>You can also download the Trend Micro Check mobile app for 24/7 automatic scam and spam detection and filtering. (Available for Android and iOS). </p>\r\n<p> </p>","reverseOrder":false}},{"_template":"Articles\\Text","_identifier":"block-108184","data":{"text":"<p>Check out <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://news.trendmicro.com/2021/07/06/surf-the-web-safely-with-trend-micro-check//">this page</a> for more information on Trend Micro Check. And as ever, if you’ve found this article an interesting and/or helpful read, please do <strong>SHARE</strong> it with friends and family to help keep the online community secure and protected. And don’t forget to leave a like and a comment.</p>"}},{"_template":"Articles\\Text","_identifier":"block-108197","data":{"text":"<p><em>This article was published in collaboration with <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://news.trendmicro.com/2023/02/20/turkey-earthquake-charity-scams/?utm_source=scamadviser&utm_medium=referral\%22>Trend Micro</a></em></p>\r\n<p><em>Image source: <a href=https://www.scamadviser.com/"https://unsplash.com/photos/EB-FA7xzwps/">Unsplash.com"}}],"sidebarBlocks":[{"_template":"Small//Content//Cta","_identifier":"block-157084","data":{"title":"Report a Scam!","consumer":null,"description":"Have you fallen for a hoax, bought a fake product? 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If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.","description":null,"listItems":[{"_template":"Default\\Items\\ListItem","_identifier":"block-167891","data":{"title":"ScamAdviser App - iOS","titleUrl":"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scamadviser/id6480509109","linkTarget":"1","text":"Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on iOS"}},{"_template":"Default\\Items\\ListItem","_identifier":"block-167944","data":{"title":"ScamAdviser App - Android","titleUrl":"https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tech.scamadviser","linkTarget":"1","text":"Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on Android."}},{"_template":"Default\\Items\\ListItem","_identifier":"block-169734","data":{"title":"NordVPN","titleUrl":"http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-101566658-13382109","linkTarget":"1","text":"NordVPN keeps your connection private and secure whether you are at home, traveling, or streaming from another country. It protects your data, blocks unwanted ads and trackers, and helps you access your paid subscriptions anywhere. Try it Today!"}},{"_template":"Default\\Items\\ListItem","_identifier":"block-171573","data":{"title":"Incogni","titleUrl":"http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-101566658-15718702","linkTarget":"1","text":"Incogni automatically removes your personal data from data brokers that trade in personal information online, helping reduce scam and identity theft risks without the hassle of manual opt-outs. Reclaim your privacy now!"}}]}},{"_template":"Default\\Content\\Heading","_identifier":"block-59517","data":{"align":"left","text":"Popular Stories","size":"large"}},{"_template":"Default\\Content\\Blogs","_identifier":"block-59530","data":{"items":[{"id":1406,"title":"7 Best VPN Services for Security, Speed, and Privacy","url":"https://www.scamadviser.com/articles/7-best-vpn-services-for-security-speed-and-privacy","excerpt":"In a nutshell: A good VPN protects your privacy with strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and fast protocols like WireGuard. The best VPNs also offer wide server coverage, leak protection, and easy-to-use apps for all devices. For 2025, the top providers are NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost, and Mullvad—each excelling in speed, security, or value.\r\n\r\nIn an age where every click is tracked, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is no longer just a luxury—it's an essential tool for digital privacy and security. A VPN works by creating a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, masking your real IP address and protecting your sensitive data from prying eyes.\r\nBut with hundreds of providers out there, how do you sort the secure from the suspect? This guide breaks down the non-negotiable features of a quality VPN and highlights the 7 top-rated services for 2025.\r\nWhat to Look for in a Good VPN: The 4 Non-Negotiable Pillars\r\n1. Ironclad Security Features\r\n\r\nStrong Encryption: AES-256, the gold standard.\r\nSecure Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, NordLynx, Lightway. Avoid PPTP.\r\nKill Switch: Ensures no accidental IP leaks.\r\nLeak Protection: Covers DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC.\r\n\r\n2. Verified Privacy Practices\r\n\r\nNo-Logs Policy: No activity or metadata tracking.\r\nIndependent Audits: Verification by third parties.\r\nSafe Jurisdiction: Prefer countries outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances.\r\n\r\n3. High-Speed Performance\r\n\r\nFast Protocols: WireGuard and equivalents.\r\nLarge Server Network: Less crowding, more reliable speeds.\r\n\r\n4. Essential Usability Features\r\n\r\nMulti-Device Apps: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, routers.\r\nSimultaneous Connections: One account, many devices.\r\nUnblocking Power: Netflix, Hulu, BBC ","buttonText":"Read more","renderAsInertiaLink":false},{"id":1475,"title":"Data Breach Victim? Your Emergency Action Plan Starts Now","url":"https://www.scamadviser.com/articles/data-breach-victim-your-emergency-action-plan-starts-now","excerpt":"How to Protect Yourself and Your Family After a Data Breach\r\nWhen Your Data Falls Into the Wrong Hands\r\nJust received that terrifying notification? Or perhaps you've noticed suspicious activity in your accounts? Take a deep breath. A data breach, the unauthorized access or exposure of sensitive, protected, or confidential data, is a deeply unsettling event. It can plunge you into a world of worry, bringing risks from financial losses and identity theft to significant emotional distress and reputational damage.\r\nThe numbers don't lie: according to a 2024 report, the number of data breach victim notices has grown by a staggering 211% year-over-year. This isn't just a distant threat; it's a stark reality many individuals face. This year alone, we've seen major organizations like Adidas and Qantas grapple with high-profile data breaches, affecting countless customers. This underscores a critical truth: nobody is untouchable. Subsequently, strategic action is the only way to minimize the risk and protect your future.\r\nThis guide is your emergency action plan, designed to walk you through every crucial step—from confirming the breach to fortifying your digital life for the long term.\r\nPart 1: Confirming the Breach and Understanding the Damage\r\nThe very first step is to answer the question definitively: Was my data compromised, and if so, how badly?\r\nStart with the basics:\r\n\r\nCheck Official NotificationsReputable companies are legally obligated to inform you if your data was part of a breach. Look for official emails, letters, or public announcements.\r\nCheck Verified Breach DatabasesPlatforms like HaveIBeenPwned help you see if","buttonText":"Read more","renderAsInertiaLink":false}]}}],"meta":{"title":"Turkey Earthquake Charity Scams Alert","description":"Whenever and wherever there is a human tragedy, scammers will swoop in to prey on people’s kindness in an effort to make a quick buck. 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Turkey Earthquake Charity Scams Alert
Author: Trend Micro
February 24, 2023As we saw with the Russia-Ukraine War, whenever and wherever there is a human tragedy, scammers will swoop in to prey on people’s kindness in an effort to make a quick buck, most commonly in the form of fake charities or percentage donation schemes.
On February 6th, two devastating earthquakes hit southern Turkey and northern Syria: the confirmed death toll is well over 40,000. Amidst the destruction, the only consolation has been the international outpouring of aid from governments, and from civilians via NGOs.
The latter is where the scammers come in. Here at Trend Micro, we have been tracking scores of fake Turkey earthquake charities run by scammers. Some are entirely fictitious, others are malicious copies of existing charities; both use authentic, but old and/or unrelated photographs and stock footage to appear convincing and bait donating victims.
The scams have come in many forms, from phishing emails to Twitter profiles, from TikTok videos to PayPal fundraising pages. Scroll down for some examples — and don’t fall for this horrendous scam. Lastly, if you want to donate to a charity, head to the IRS website to find a list of legitimate charities.
Turkey Earthquake Phishing Email Scams
Turkey Earthquake Fake Twitter and PayPal Scams
Source: Twitter
The above image has been generated by AI. One clue is the fact that it’s messed up and given the firefighter SIX FINGERS! It has also inexplicably paired a Greek firefighter with a Turkish child.
Meanwhile, this fake NGO Twitter profile suddenly appeared, had no affiliations, and had just 31 followers — including bots. Thankfully, these Twitter profiles have been taken down after they were reported — unfortunately, the latter’s corresponding PayPal page still appears to be live.
Source: BBC
As observers have pointed out, the creator of this page donated to his own fund to increase the figure and make it appear more convincing! There are many similar fake funding pages. Two red flags to watch out for are: suspiciously low amounts of money donated so far, and if they claim to be based in Turkey — which is highly unlikely.
In response to these fake pages, PayPal has stated:
Turkey Earthquake TikTok Scams
Source: TikTok
The image on the left has been making the rounds on TikTok and purports to show a child victim of the earthquake — accompanying it are pleas for donations and various tugs of the heartstrings. Unfortunately, this picture is unrelated: it was taken during the Afrin campaign during a phase of the Syrian Civil War.
In response to posts like this, TikTok has stated:
What You Can Do
To summarize, watch out for the above schemes — don’t let the scammers get away with it. Remember to do your research, and stick to the big names. For further reference, this Middle-Eastern news website has published a good article with some helpful suggestions for who to donate to.
We would encourage readers to use our FREE Trend Micro Check tool and detect scams with ease: Trend Micro Check is an all-in-one browser extension and mobile app for detecting scams, phishing attacks, malware, and dangerous links.
http://After you’ve pinned the Trend Micro Check extension, it will block dangerous sites automatically! (Available on Safari, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.)
http://You can also download the Trend Micro Check mobile app for 24/7 automatic scam and spam detection and filtering. (Available for Android and iOS).
Check out this page for more information on Trend Micro Check. And as ever, if you’ve found this article an interesting and/or helpful read, please do SHARE it with friends and family to help keep the online community secure and protected. And don’t forget to leave a like and a comment.
This article was published in collaboration with Trend Micro
Image source: Unsplash.com
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How to Protect Yourself and Your Family After a Data Breach
When Your Data Falls Into the Wrong Hands
Just received that terrifying notification? Or perhaps you've noticed suspicious activity in your accounts? Take a deep breath. A data breach, the unauthorized access or exposure of sensitive, protected, or confidential data, is a deeply unsettling event. It can plunge you into a world of worry, bringing risks from financial losses and identity theft to significant emotional distress and reputational damage.
The numbers don't lie: according to a 2024 report, the number of data breach victim notices has grown by a staggering 211% year-over-year. This isn't just a distant threat; it's a stark reality many individuals face. This year alone, we've seen major organizations like Adidas and Qantas grapple with high-profile data breaches, affecting countless customers. This underscores a critical truth: nobody is untouchable. Subsequently, strategic action is the only way to minimize the risk and protect your future.
This guide is your emergency action plan, designed to walk you through every crucial step—from confirming the breach to fortifying your digital life for the long term.
Part 1: Confirming the Breach and Understanding the Damage
The very first step is to answer the question definitively: Was my data compromised, and if so, how badly?
Start with the basics:
Check Official NotificationsReputable companies are legally obligated to inform you if your data was part of a breach. Look for official emails, letters, or public announcements.
Check Verified Breach DatabasesPlatforms like HaveIBeenPwned help you see if
Turkey Earthquake Charity Scams Alert
Author: Trend Micro
As we saw with the Russia-Ukraine War, whenever and wherever there is a human tragedy, scammers will swoop in to prey on people’s kindness in an effort to make a quick buck, most commonly in the form of fake charities or percentage donation schemes.
On February 6th, two devastating earthquakes hit southern Turkey and northern Syria: the confirmed death toll is well over 40,000. Amidst the destruction, the only consolation has been the international outpouring of aid from governments, and from civilians via NGOs.
The latter is where the scammers come in. Here at Trend Micro, we have been tracking scores of fake Turkey earthquake charities run by scammers. Some are entirely fictitious, others are malicious copies of existing charities; both use authentic, but old and/or unrelated photographs and stock footage to appear convincing and bait donating victims.
The scams have come in many forms, from phishing emails to Twitter profiles, from TikTok videos to PayPal fundraising pages. Scroll down for some examples — and don’t fall for this horrendous scam. Lastly, if you want to donate to a charity, head to the IRS website to find a list of legitimate charities.
Turkey Earthquake Phishing Email Scams
Turkey Earthquake Fake Twitter and PayPal Scams
Source: Twitter
The above image has been generated by AI. One clue is the fact that it’s messed up and given the firefighter SIX FINGERS! It has also inexplicably paired a Greek firefighter with a Turkish child.
Meanwhile, this fake NGO Twitter profile suddenly appeared, had no affiliations, and had just 31 followers — including bots. Thankfully, these Twitter profiles have been taken down after they were reported — unfortunately, the latter’s corresponding PayPal page still appears to be live.
Source: BBC
As observers have pointed out, the creator of this page donated to his own fund to increase the figure and make it appear more convincing! There are many similar fake funding pages. Two red flags to watch out for are: suspiciously low amounts of money donated so far, and if they claim to be based in Turkey — which is highly unlikely.
In response to these fake pages, PayPal has stated:
Turkey Earthquake TikTok Scams
Source: TikTok
The image on the left has been making the rounds on TikTok and purports to show a child victim of the earthquake — accompanying it are pleas for donations and various tugs of the heartstrings. Unfortunately, this picture is unrelated: it was taken during the Afrin campaign during a phase of the Syrian Civil War.
In response to posts like this, TikTok has stated:
What You Can Do
To summarize, watch out for the above schemes — don’t let the scammers get away with it. Remember to do your research, and stick to the big names. For further reference, this Middle-Eastern news website has published a good article with some helpful suggestions for who to donate to.
We would encourage readers to use our FREE Trend Micro Check tool and detect scams with ease: Trend Micro Check is an all-in-one browser extension and mobile app for detecting scams, phishing attacks, malware, and dangerous links.
After you’ve pinned the Trend Micro Check extension, it will block dangerous sites automatically! (Available on Safari, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.)
You can also download the Trend Micro Check mobile app for 24/7 automatic scam and spam detection and filtering. (Available for Android and iOS).
Check out this page for more information on Trend Micro Check. And as ever, if you’ve found this article an interesting and/or helpful read, please do SHARE it with friends and family to help keep the online community secure and protected. And don’t forget to leave a like and a comment.
This article was published in collaboration with Trend Micro
Image source: Unsplash.com
Report a Scam!
Have you fallen for a hoax, bought a fake product? Report the site and warn others!
Scam Categories
Help & Info
Top Safety Picks
Your Go-To Tools for Online SafetyDisclaimer: Some of the links here are affiliate links. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
- ScamAdviser App - iOS : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on iOS
- ScamAdviser App - Android : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on Android.
- NordVPN : NordVPN keeps your connection private and secure whether you are at home, traveling, or streaming from another country. It protects your data, blocks unwanted ads and trackers, and helps you access your paid subscriptions anywhere. Try it Today!
- Incogni : Incogni automatically removes your personal data from data brokers that trade in personal information online, helping reduce scam and identity theft risks without the hassle of manual opt-outs. Reclaim your privacy now!
Popular Stories
In a nutshell: A good VPN protects your privacy with strong encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and fast protocols like WireGuard. The best VPNs also offer wide server coverage, leak protection, and easy-to-use apps for all devices. For 2025, the top providers are NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost, and Mullvad—each excelling in speed, security, or value. In an age where every click is tracked, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is no longer just a luxury—it's an essential tool for digital privacy and security. A VPN works by creating a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, masking your real IP address and protecting your sensitive data from prying eyes. But with hundreds of providers out there, how do you sort the secure from the suspect? This guide breaks down the non-negotiable features of a quality VPN and highlights the 7 top-rated services for 2025. What to Look for in a Good VPN: The 4 Non-Negotiable Pillars 1. Ironclad Security Features Strong Encryption: AES-256, the gold standard. Secure Protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, NordLynx, Lightway. Avoid PPTP. Kill Switch: Ensures no accidental IP leaks. Leak Protection: Covers DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC. 2. Verified Privacy Practices No-Logs Policy: No activity or metadata tracking. Independent Audits: Verification by third parties. Safe Jurisdiction: Prefer countries outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliances. 3. High-Speed Performance Fast Protocols: WireGuard and equivalents. Large Server Network: Less crowding, more reliable speeds. 4. Essential Usability Features Multi-Device Apps: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, routers. Simultaneous Connections: One account, many devices. Unblocking Power: Netflix, Hulu, BBC
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family After a Data Breach When Your Data Falls Into the Wrong Hands Just received that terrifying notification? Or perhaps you've noticed suspicious activity in your accounts? Take a deep breath. A data breach, the unauthorized access or exposure of sensitive, protected, or confidential data, is a deeply unsettling event. It can plunge you into a world of worry, bringing risks from financial losses and identity theft to significant emotional distress and reputational damage. The numbers don't lie: according to a 2024 report, the number of data breach victim notices has grown by a staggering 211% year-over-year. This isn't just a distant threat; it's a stark reality many individuals face. This year alone, we've seen major organizations like Adidas and Qantas grapple with high-profile data breaches, affecting countless customers. This underscores a critical truth: nobody is untouchable. Subsequently, strategic action is the only way to minimize the risk and protect your future. This guide is your emergency action plan, designed to walk you through every crucial step—from confirming the breach to fortifying your digital life for the long term. Part 1: Confirming the Breach and Understanding the Damage The very first step is to answer the question definitively: Was my data compromised, and if so, how badly? Start with the basics: Check Official NotificationsReputable companies are legally obligated to inform you if your data was part of a breach. Look for official emails, letters, or public announcements. Check Verified Breach DatabasesPlatforms like HaveIBeenPwned help you see if