Benin: Authorities warn of fake online child adoption offers

Adoption offers circulating freely on social media, particularly TikTok , are raising concerns among Beninese authorities. Behind these seemingly innocuous proposals lie illegal practices with serious consequences. The Central Authority for International Adoption is sounding the alarm and calling for increased vigilance to protect children.A new form of digital exploitation is drawing the attention of Beninese authorities. On social media, unauthorized individuals and organizations are now offering children for adoption, outside of any legal framework. Faced with this situation, the Central Authority for International Adoption in the Republic of Benin (ACAIB) has decided to break its silence.

In an official statement dated February 13, 2026, the institution alerted the public to the circulation of " fake offers to adopt children " on digital platforms, with a particular mention of TikTok . An illegal practice with serious consequences

According to details provided by ACAIB , these advertisements originate from unauthorized actors claiming to offer children for adoption, in violation of current laws. This situation, beyond its illegality, exposes children to significant risks.

The institution warns against practices that may constitute attempted fraud, but also more serious phenomena such as child trafficking and exploitation. " These practices constitute attempted fraud and seriously expose children to the risks of trafficking and exploitation ," the statement emphasizes, stressing the gravity of the threat.In a context marked by the rapid expansion of digital usage, this type of abuse finds fertile ground. The virality of content and the relative anonymity of platforms facilitate the spread of fraudulent advertisements, which are often difficult to trace.

ACAIB reiterates the legal framework

Faced with this situation, the authorities firmly reiterate that the adoption of a child cannot take place outside of strictly regulated legal procedures.

In Benin, the ACAIB remains the only institution authorized to conduct the administrative procedure for international adoption. The judicial phase falls exclusively under the jurisdiction of the competent courts. Any attempt to adopt outside of this process is considered null and void.

This clarification aims to dispel any ambiguity, particularly among prospective adoptive parents who might be tempted to use parallel channels, often presented as faster or simpler.

Networks under surveillance

Beninese authorities insist they are not remaining passive in the face of this threat. The statement specifies that measures are being taken to guarantee the protection of children, both within the national territory and in the digital space.

The relevant authorities are mobilized to identify and dismantle the networks involved in these practices. The perpetrators and their accomplices are subject to prosecution in accordance with applicable laws. The authorities also reserve the right to take any necessary action without delay.

This strong signal reflects the will of public authorities to combat all forms of trafficking or exploitation of children, in a context where digital tools complicate the task of regulators.

Call for collective vigilance

Beyond the actions of the authorities, ACAIB calls for everyone to mobilize. The public is urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Citizens can alert the relevant services or contact the Child Helpline (LAE) free of charge by dialing 138. This reporting mechanism is a crucial link in the fight against these practices.

In a digital environment where information circulates rapidly, individual responsibility becomes a key lever to prevent abuse and protect the most vulnerable.

A child protection issue

This warning comes at a time when child protection remains a major issue. While the rise of digital technologies opens up new opportunities, it also creates spaces conducive to illegal activities.

By warning against these abuses, ACAIB intends not only to prevent abuses, but also to strengthen confidence in official mechanisms, the only guarantors of a safe adoption that complies with children's rights.