Expert Reveals Scam Scheme Involving Children’s Clubs

New Scam Scheme Targeting Children’s Clubs and Camps

In 2026, a new fraud scheme has been uncovered in Russia aimed at parents enrolling their children in clubs and summer camps. Criminals create copies of official websites and social media pages of well-known children’s institutions, offering services with prepayments of up to 100%.

After receiving payment, the scammers vanish, leaving parents unable to get refunds or use the services. Such cases have been reported in major cities including Moscow and Saint Petersburg, where average prepayment amounts range from 3000 to 7000 rubles.

Fraud Mechanism and Technologies Used

The perpetrators develop exact replicas of popular children’s club and camp websites, using fake domains with names similar to the originals. On social media, they create pages featuring logos and photos to gain parents’ trust.

For payment, scammers ask to transfer money to e-wallets or bank cards registered under fictitious names. The prepayment can reach 100%, which is uncommon in most official contracts with clubs and camps that usually require only a partial advance.

Role of Official Institutions and Expert Recommendations

The Moscow Department of Education and several regional authorities have already issued warnings about these fraud schemes. A press service of a major city children’s center stated that their official website uses a .ru domain and posts complete information about clubs and prices with contact phone numbers.

Experts advise parents to book places only through official city leisure portals or directly at institutions. It is also recommended to check for licenses and contracts, and in case of doubts, to contact consumer protection agencies.

Consequences for Affected Parents and Children

Loss of prepayment often delivers a financial blow to families with limited budgets. Moreover, the lack of a guaranteed spot in a club or camp deprives children of opportunities for development and summer recreation.

Preliminary estimates indicate that in Moscow alone, several hundred families have been affected over the past six months, with total damages exceeding several million rubles. Government agencies are considering strengthening oversight and creating a registry of verified organizations.

Prospects for Combating Fraud and Consumer Protection

In 2026, plans include mandatory digital registration of children’s clubs and camps in a unified state registry, enabling quick verification of organizations’ legitimacy. There are also proposals to impose fines up to 500,000 rubles for operating fake websites.

Public organizations and parent committees are actively working on informational campaigns aimed at raising digital literacy and preventing fraud among the population.

Conclusion: Parents should exercise caution and verify official sources when paying for children’s clubs and camps to avoid falling victim to scams.