PanicStation.org
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uk Death, bereavement & serious family crises fake crowdfunding page • crowdfunding page in their name • fundraiser created without consent • memorial fundraiser scam • fake gofundme page • crowdfund impersonation • using a loved one’s name • bereavement donation scam • fraudulent fundraiser link • someone raising money in our name • unauthorised memorial page • grief scam fundraiser • bogus funeral fundraiser • crowdfund page not authorised • donations sent to scam • family member name misuse • charity fraud online • impersonation fundraiser

What to do if…
you discover a crowdfunding page was created in a loved one’s name without your consent

Short answer

Pause, take screenshots, and report the page to the crowdfunding platform immediately so it can be removed or frozen while you work out what happened.

Do not do these things

  • Don’t send the page owner personal documents (passport scans, bank details, full address) just because they ask — verify through the platform’s official support channels only.
  • Don’t start a public argument on the fundraiser page while it’s still live — it can drive more donations to the wrong place.
  • Don’t share the link “to warn people” in group chats or on social media unless you’re sure you won’t amplify it.
  • Don’t assume it’s “probably a misunderstanding” if money is being collected — treat it as potentially fraudulent until confirmed.
  • Don’t click any “verification” links sent by the page owner; go directly to the platform/app yourself.

What to do now

  1. Capture evidence (2 minutes, calmly). Screenshot the full page, the organiser name/handle, the URL, images, update posts, and any donation/beneficiary claims. If there are comments, capture those too.
  2. Report it inside the platform right away. Use the platform’s “report fundraiser” / “report abuse” / “impersonation” option, and state clearly: created in [loved one’s name], not authorised by family/estate, and you want it taken down or frozen. Ask for a case/reference number.
  3. Contact the platform’s support team via its official help centre. Request: (a) immediate suspension while investigated, (b) removal for impersonation/misrepresentation, and (c) that no further payouts are made.
    • If your loved one has died, say you are next of kin/executor (if true) and that you can provide proof through official channels only if required.
  4. Reduce harm by warning the right people without spreading the link. Tell close family/friends: “There is an unauthorised fundraiser circulating. Please don’t donate. If you already did, contact the platform for a refund.” Share a screenshot rather than the live link if you can.
  5. If you suspect fraud (or money has already moved), make a fraud report.
    • If you’re in England, Wales or Northern Ireland: report it via the national fraud reporting service (Report Fraud) so it can be passed to police.
    • If you’re in Scotland: report to Police Scotland (101 for non-emergencies).
    • If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999.
  6. If there’s a related scam website (a fake “official page” linked from the fundraiser), report the website as suspicious. Use the UK government cyber reporting route for suspicious URLs rather than sharing the live link around.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide right now whether to pursue civil action, “name and shame” publicly, or contact the media.
  • You do not need to gather every detail of who donated today — focus first on freezing/removing the page.
  • You do not need to draft a perfect statement for everyone. A short message (“don’t donate; it’s unauthorised”) is enough for now.

Important reassurance

This kind of impersonation and “bereavement scam” is sadly common, and being shocked or furious is a normal reaction. Taking the page down and stopping payouts is the most protective first move — you can handle explanations and next steps once the immediate harm is contained.

Scope note

These are first steps to stabilise the situation and reduce further loss or distress. Later steps (refunds, formal complaints, identity misuse, legal options) may depend on the platform and the specific circumstances.

Important note

This is general information, not legal advice. If you feel unsafe or are being harassed or threatened, contact the police. If you’re unsure whether a message or link is genuine, use the platform’s official app/site and trusted contact routes rather than replying directly.

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