China influencer exposed over fake US$150,000 flood gift; Red Cross finds only 15-cent offers

A Chinese influencer faced widespread criticism after a purported donation of 1 million yuan (US$150,000) to flood relief efforts was allegedly revealed as fabricated.

Since July, typhoon-induced torrential rains have ravaged the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region in southern China, resulting in the deaths of 159 people, according to local reports.

On September 7, internet users accused a RedNote influencer known as Anlan of fabricating a donation record for flood relief in Guangxi, sharing screenshots of the alleged receipt across comment sections.

Anlan, whose gender and true identity remain undisclosed, posted an image claiming to show a 1 million-yuan donation to the Guangxi Red Cross on July 17, accompanied by a caption: “Offering a humble contribution to post-disaster reconstruction.”

The post quickly went viral, garnering thousands of likes and commendation from internet users who celebrated Anlan’s “act of kindness.” The account amassed more than 31,000 followers within days.

The SCMP contacted the Guangxi Red Cross, which stated that it had not received any single personal donation of 1 million yuan on July 17.