Social Media Scam Alert: Inside the Alleged Natasha Foundation Con Scheme

UgandaToday: Social Media Scam Alert: Inside the Alleged Natasha Foundation Con Scheme

By Uganda Today Investigations Desk

A growing number of Ugandans have come forward with complaints over what appears to be a well-coordinated social media con operation, allegedly run under the guise of a charitable entity operating as Natasha Foundation.

Victims say the scheme relies heavily on WhatsApp-based interactions, carefully structured to evade direct phone contact while building false credibility through controlled digital conversations.

The Entry Point: A WhatsApp-Only Contact

At the centre of the alleged scheme is a WhatsApp number +256 767 189 862, which is widely circulated across social media platforms with links inviting the public to “chat” under the banner of Natasha Foundation with a look alike image of Natasha, the Uganda President’s daughter.

Notably, this number:

• Is unreachable via normal phone calls

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• Can only be accessed through WhatsApp messaging or WhatsApp calls

• Automatically opens conversations with unsuspecting members of the public

According to mobile phone registration records, this number is registered under the names Fatuma Mbakire.

Several complainants allege that once contact is initiated, the conversation quickly shifts toward requests for financial assistance, facilitation fees, or promised benefits linked to foundation-related opportunities.

The Second Layer: “Foundation Management”

As conversations progress, victims report being redirected to a second WhatsApp number, +256 706 423 481, whose holder claims to be the Manager of Natasha Foundation.

Mobile registration details indicate this number is registered under the names Kulusum Kawuja.

This second contact allegedly:

• Reinforces the legitimacy of the foundation

• Provides instructions for mobile money transfers

• Applies pressure through urgency, emotional appeals, or promises of returns

It is at this stage, victims say, that money exchanges occur, after which communication becomes erratic or entirely ceases.

Pattern of Deception and Digital Shielding

Investigators note a recurring pattern:

• WhatsApp-only communication to avoid traceable voice calls

• Use of foundation branding to inspire trust

• Multiple contacts playing different “roles” within the same operation

• Swift disengagement once funds are received

These tactics, experts warn, are increasingly common in digitally mediated fraud schemes, particularly those exploiting the credibility of charitable causes.

Embedded Evidence: WhatsApp Conversations

Uganda Today has reviewed screenshots and records of WhatsApp conversations shared by affected individuals. These records, which are embedded within this publication, illustrate:

• The scripted nature of responses

• The redirection between contacts

• Requests for money framed as administrative or facilitation costs

The publication of these records is intended to inform the public and aid authorities, not to pre-empt any legal process. Contacted for a comment, Natasha Aide vehemently disassociated her boss of operating anything to do with Natasha Foundation. She asserted that Natasha doesn’t run any foundation and that they were going to report the matter to security. ” Let’s report this to security”, she stated.

Police and Public Caution

As of publication, it remains unclear whether a formal police case has been concluded. However, victims indicate that statements are being compiled and relevant authorities notified.

Uganda Today urges:

• Members of the public to exercise caution when engaging with unsolicited WhatsApp links

• Verification of charitable organizations through official registries

• Reporting suspected fraud to the police and telecom providers

A Growing Digital Threat

This case highlights the evolving sophistication of online scams in Uganda, where social media and encrypted messaging platforms are increasingly weaponized against unsuspecting users. Uganda Today will continue to follow this story as investigations unfold.

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