Crypto Investment Scam

Promises of guaranteed high returns on cryptocurrency or forex investments, often introduced through social media, fake apps, or romance relationships. Victims lose everything when they try to withdraw.

Victims are approached through social media ads, unsolicited messages, or an online relationship by someone who presents themselves as a savvy crypto trader with a "proven" strategy or exclusive platform. The scammer directs the victim to a slick-looking trading app or website that shows a small initial investment growing rapidly, encouraging larger deposits. When the victim eventually tries to withdraw, the platform demands additional "taxes," "fees," or "verification deposits," and once those are paid it either disappears or keeps stalling indefinitely.

• Guaranteed or unusually high, consistent returns with little to no risk.
• Pressure to invest more money right as you try to withdraw.
• Unexpected fees or taxes required before a withdrawal can be processed.
• The platform or advisor was found through an unsolicited message or online romantic contact.

• No legitimate investment guarantees returns — that claim is always a lie.
• Verify any investment firm with the SEC at investor.gov or FINRA at BrokerCheck.
• Never invest money you cannot afford to lose completely.
• If someone you met online is suggesting investments, that is a major red flag.