KATHMANDU: Scammers in Nepal are using the name of satellite internet provider Starlink to lure users into paying for services that are not legally available in the country, authorities and digital security experts have warned.

Fraudulent Facebook pages and websites, including one called Starlink Global, have promoted a so-called “last chance” offer for a product dubbed Starlink Mini, claiming it provides lifetime internet in Nepal for as low as Rs 20,000. The advertisements promise high-speed internet, portability, no monthly fees, and suitability for remote areas, often using Nepali text directly translated from English to mimic official promotions. Clicking the ads redirects users to a fake website resembling Starlink’s official site.

The scam offers packages including a lifetime option for Rs 20,600 and an annual plan for Rs 10,900, with further clicks leading to another fraudulent payment portal requesting money via Google Pay, Shop Pay, or credit cards.

In reality, the Nepal Telecommunications Authority has not authorized Starlink to operate in the country, meaning hardware purchases alone cannot provide internet access. Experts say the scam is designed to exploit unsuspecting Nepali users seeking high-speed digital connectivity.