News

More than 416 fraudulent “rescue” accounts have been removed from TikTok following a coordinated response led by the Social Media Animal Cruelty Coalition (SMACC), working closely with Ugandan organisations and witnesses who first raised the alarm. Reports from the ground revealed a pattern of staged injuries, recycled animals, and fabricated rescue stories used to solicit international donations.

A blog between SMACC and CAAI, highlighting how CAAI’s rapid action and OSINT collaboration helped expose a brutal cruelty network in Bulgaria. What began with one report grew into nationwide public pressure, leading to arrests and major legal reform. This case shows the real power of informed citizens and organised civil society to create lasting change.

Fake animal rescue videos are increasingly being used to collect donations under false pretences. Dramatic scenes are often manufactured, putting animals in danger just to drive views and money. Before donating, it’s important to know how to recognise genuine rescue work and avoid scams that exploit both animals and the public. This guide helps you stay aware and support real animal welfare efforts.

In an age where cruelty can go viral within seconds, the SMACC Global Summit 2025 brought together over 180 advocates, researchers, and digital defenders to address one urgent question: How can we make the internet a safer place for animals?

In 2024, SMACC (Social Media Animal Cruelty Coalition) analysed over 83,000 links to online cruelty content. These reports, submitted by the public and researchers, reveal a disturbing truth: some of the world’s biggest tech companies are failing to stop animal abuse from thriving on their platforms.

Scaring cats with tin foil for viral videos causes stress and anxiety. It's harmful to their well-being

A recent case of an influencer grabbing a baby wombat for social media highlights a much bigger issue: the unchecked exploitation of wildlif

On Indonesia Primate Day 2025, we raise awareness about macaque cruelty on social media and call for stronger protections and accountability

Blog collaboration between Amanda Faradifa (SMACC/MACC) and Sarah Kite (Action for Primates) The recent convictions of Adriana Orme and...