Fraudsters exploited TikTok to deceive victims by falsely promising that donations to Nigel Farage's Reform UK would be matched, a court has heard. The scam misused the party's branding to appear legitimate, tricking unsuspecting individuals into handing over money.
Southwark Crown Court was told that the fraudulent scheme targeted supporters of the right-wing party, with offenders creating misleading content on the social media platform. The case highlights growing concerns over political scams and digital fraud.
How the Scam Worked
The fraudsters claimed that any donations made to Reform UK would be doubled, using the party's logo and imagery to add credibility. Victims were directed to fake payment pages, where their money was stolen.
Authorities have warned the public to remain vigilant against such schemes, particularly around election periods when political fundraising increases.
Legal Proceedings
The case is being heard at Southwark Crown Court, with prosecutors outlining how the operation functioned. Investigations are ongoing to identify those behind the scam.
Reform UK has distanced itself from the fraud, stating it had no involvement and condemning the misuse of its name. The party urged supporters to only donate through official channels.
Rise in Political Fraud
This incident follows a broader trend of criminals exploiting political movements for financial gain. Experts advise verifying donation requests directly with parties before contributing.
