Cryptocurrency Investment Scams
Fake investment 'opportunities' promising big crypto returns, often after a friendly online introduction.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
A scammer promotes a can't-lose crypto investment, sometimes after befriending you online. They show fake profits on a slick website or app to get you to invest more. When you try to withdraw, they demand 'taxes' or fees and the money disappears.
What it usually looks like
- A new online friend or message introduces a crypto opportunity.
- A website or app shows your balance growing quickly.
- You must pay fees or taxes before you can withdraw your 'profits'.
Common warning signs
- Promises of guaranteed or unusually high returns.
- Pressure to invest more and to act fast.
- You cannot withdraw without paying more money first.
Example wording scammers use
“Our platform guarantees 20% weekly returns. Deposit now and watch your balance grow.”
“To withdraw your profit, first pay the 15% tax fee.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Your cryptocurrency or money, sent to their wallet.
- Repeated deposits and fake 'fees'.
What to do
- Be skeptical of any guaranteed or fast returns.
- Do not invest through a link or app someone messaged you.
- Never pay a fee to unlock your own money.
What to do if you already responded
- Stop sending funds.
- Save records of the website, wallet addresses, and messages.
- Report it to the FTC and the FBI's IC3, and tell your bank or crypto exchange.