The Assam flood relief scam investigation has put nearly 50 social media accounts under scrutiny as the CID examines suspected online donation fraud. The action comes as a flood alert remains in parts of Golaghat, where rising Dhansiri and Doyang waters have affected communities.
CID probe
The Criminal Investigation Department of Assam Police has launched an investigation into nearly 50 social media accounts suspected of collecting money by claiming to support people affected by the Assam floods.
According to police officials, the cyber cell is tracing accounts that allegedly circulated UPI IDs and QR codes while asking the public to contribute toward flood relief. Investigators are expected to examine financial transactions linked to the identified accounts to determine where the collected money went and whether it reached legitimate relief operations.
Police have warned that anyone found deliberately misusing public donations or exploiting the flood emergency for financial gain could face legal action. The investigation is significant because disaster-related appeals can spread rapidly across social platforms, making it difficult for donors to distinguish genuine volunteers from fraudulent accounts.
Donation fraud
Assam Police has asked residents to verify individuals, groups and organisations before sending money online. Donors should avoid transferring funds simply because a social media post contains photographs of flood victims, a UPI number or a QR payment code.
People can reduce the risk of donation fraud by checking whether a relief group has verifiable contact details, an established presence and clear information about how contributions will be used. Suspicious fundraising requests can also be reported to police or cybercrime authorities rather than being forwarded to other users.
The warning highlights a broader problem during natural disasters: emotional appeals can push people to donate quickly without verifying the recipient. Genuine relief efforts benefit when donors use trusted and transparent channels.
Flood alert
Police have also urged digital media platforms and content creators to protect children affected by the floods. The advisory asks users not to publish children's identities or share unblurred photographs and videos that could expose vulnerable minors to online exploitation or other risks.
The CID has stressed the need for responsible digital reporting while rescue and rehabilitation operations continue. Protecting privacy is particularly important when families have been displaced and children are living in temporary shelters or relief camps.
Golaghat flood
Meanwhile, flooding continues to affect parts of Golaghat district and the Numaligarh area. Families in inundated locations have been moved from vulnerable homes as river levels remain a concern.
Floodwater linked to the Dhansiri and Doyang river systems has affected villages across areas including Bokakhat, Golaghat and Khumtai. Reports from the district also said the opening of gates at the Doyang Hydroelectric Project contributed to increased downstream water levels.
ASDMA's Golaghat disaster management plan identifies both the Dhansiri and Doyang as monitored rivers with established warning and danger levels, reflecting the district's recurring flood exposure.
Dhansiri level
The Dhansiri has been reported above the danger mark in the affected region, increasing concern for low-lying communities. Flood monitoring remains important because changing rainfall and upstream releases can quickly alter conditions around riverbanks and settlements.
Authorities continue to focus on relief operations while Assam Police addresses the parallel risk of cyber fraud. For residents and donors, the message is straightforward: follow official flood updates, protect the privacy of affected families and verify every online fundraising appeal before transferring money.
