The local versions - Instagram accounts @sdmoneyhunt and @sandiegoscavengers - have quickly built major followings by stashing envelopes or wrapped-up bills at beaches, parks, and street corners around the county, then usually filming the first person to claim the prize.
The concept is simple: the accounts post a short video showing a location hint and the cash-stuffed receptacle being dropped - often nothing more than a tree trunk, a railing, a sliver of curb or a parking lot. Followers then scramble to match the visual and get to the spot before anyone else. Finds are often captured on camera within minutes, with some videos showing full-on foot races or cars pulling up seconds apart.
Both San Diego pages have grown rapidly, mirroring viral cash-drop creators in areas like Kansas City, Boston, New York, New Jersey, Minneapolis, and Atlanta. Nationally, the trend has evolved into a blend of scavenger hunt, influencer content, and feel-good entertainment - with amounts ranging from $20 to $500 or more. Some creators self-fund the drops, while others partner with local businesses seeking exposure.
But unlike contests run by regulated sweepstakes companies or nonprofit giveaways, the rapidly expanding “money drop” accounts operate with no formal oversight. Followers rely entirely on the creators’ word that the cash is actually being hidden, that the posted finds are legitimate, and that the hunt is as open and fair as it appears on screen.
In San Diego, some viewers have begun asking the same questions that have emerged in other cities: How much money is actually being given away? Are the finds authentic? Are the accounts using cash drops primarily to grow followers? These concerns aren’t unique - nearly every local market experiencing the trend has seen a wave of skepticism alongside the excitement. The creators behind San Diego’s accounts have not publicly disclosed funding sources, business partners, or verification methods.
Still, the momentum is undeniable. Many San Diegans describe the hunts as a rare burst of simple fun - a momentary adrenaline shot and a chance at a small financial surprise at a time when the cost of living feels crushing. And as long as people are willing to chase clues, more money drops appear likely.
Whether the trend represents spontaneous generosity, savvy social media growth strategy, or something in between, San Diego has fully entered the hidden-cash era - one viral post, one taped-up bill, and one fast-moving follower at a time.
The concept is simple: the accounts post a short video showing a location hint and the cash-stuffed receptacle being dropped - often nothing more than a tree trunk, a railing, a sliver of curb or a parking lot. Followers then scramble to match the visual and get to the spot before anyone else. Finds are often captured on camera within minutes, with some videos showing full-on foot races or cars pulling up seconds apart.
Both San Diego pages have grown rapidly, mirroring viral cash-drop creators in areas like Kansas City, Boston, New York, New Jersey, Minneapolis, and Atlanta. Nationally, the trend has evolved into a blend of scavenger hunt, influencer content, and feel-good entertainment - with amounts ranging from $20 to $500 or more. Some creators self-fund the drops, while others partner with local businesses seeking exposure.
But unlike contests run by regulated sweepstakes companies or nonprofit giveaways, the rapidly expanding “money drop” accounts operate with no formal oversight. Followers rely entirely on the creators’ word that the cash is actually being hidden, that the posted finds are legitimate, and that the hunt is as open and fair as it appears on screen.
In San Diego, some viewers have begun asking the same questions that have emerged in other cities: How much money is actually being given away? Are the finds authentic? Are the accounts using cash drops primarily to grow followers? These concerns aren’t unique - nearly every local market experiencing the trend has seen a wave of skepticism alongside the excitement. The creators behind San Diego’s accounts have not publicly disclosed funding sources, business partners, or verification methods.
Still, the momentum is undeniable. Many San Diegans describe the hunts as a rare burst of simple fun - a momentary adrenaline shot and a chance at a small financial surprise at a time when the cost of living feels crushing. And as long as people are willing to chase clues, more money drops appear likely.
Whether the trend represents spontaneous generosity, savvy social media growth strategy, or something in between, San Diego has fully entered the hidden-cash era - one viral post, one taped-up bill, and one fast-moving follower at a time.
Originally published on November 23, 2025.
