Fake donation scams emerge after earthquake

On August 20, 2026, authorities issued urgent warnings about criminal activities attempting to take advantage of seismic emergencies. Unscrupulous individuals seek to profit from the good faith of those wishing to collaborate with families affected by the tremor.

Urgent call from municipal authorities

The Mayor's Office of Manizales made an appeal for volunteers and donors to remain vigilant. Criminals are collecting money, clothing, and supplies by falsely using the name of those affected through fraudulent censuses and deceptive campaigns.

Actions of the National Police Cyber Center

The National Police Cyber Center warned about phishing methods and attempts to break into homes with the intention of theft. Links with false promises are circulating on messaging apps and social media.

Guidelines on the Single Registry of Disaster Victims

The Unidad Nacional para la Gestión del Riesgo de Desastres clarified that the official registration is free. Any charge to complete the registration is illegal and constitutes an attempted theft.

Recommendations from the Financial Superintendency

The Financial Superintendency advises verifying help offers directly with official agencies. One should never provide bank passwords, security codes, or financial data over calls, messaging apps, or suspicious links.

Official channels for donations and reports

Local mayor's offices clarified that they do not collect cash on the streets. The authorized channel for financial donations is the Solidarity Fund (Fondo Solidario) of the Chamber of Commerce at Banco Davivienda, checking account number 056008556997514, key @8908010426. If financial data is sent by mistake, the guidance is to immediately contact the bank and the National Police.

With information from El Colombiano.