🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 125 (from laksa134)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa125.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering","crawl_time":1776507240,"first_indexed_time":1693613262,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"gov,ga!sos,\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering s443","src_root_hash":"378371947302061525","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig Butchering | Georgia Secretary of State","meta_descriptions":["The Secretary of State’s Division of Securities and Charities is issuing this Investor Alert to warn investors about the latest investment fraud, Pig-Butchering. This is a cryptocurrency scam that has been targeting Georgia investors this summer."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Issued: July 19, 2023\nThe Secretary of State’s Division of Securities and Charities is issuing this Investor Alert to warn investors about the latest investment fraud, Pig-Butchering. This is a cryptocurrency scam that has been targeting Georgia investors this summer.\n“Pig butchering scams” as they were named in southeast Asia, are scams where scammers build the victim’s confidence through casual conversation with a real person who eventually convinces the victim that they will help them make money. It’s called “pig butchering” because the alleged scammer continually feeds the victim information as they fatten the victim with excitement and the promise of great investment returns.\nScam artists will use your phone number or address to contact you in an attempt to take your money if they can. Scammers also scour social media, business records and even dating sites to find information to target potential victims. They will contact you through social media, text messages, email, mail, Whatsapp etc.\nH\nOW\nT\nHE\nS\nCAM\nW\nORKS\nThe scammer may pretend to be an old friend, a trusted public figure, your boss or even a prospective romantic partner. The conversations will slowly begin to center around investments or cryptocurrency, asking questions about your financial background and investing habits. The scammer’s goal is not to request money from you, but to convince you to invest in a fake trading website or platform that will show you a bogus balance with lots of profit.\nThe scammer will “fatten the pig” by allowing you to withdraw profits early so you will trust the process and invest more. They may even “lend” you money so that you can make larger trades. The promise of high return encourages victims to invest all they can.\nWhen you try to withdraw large sums, the website will require more money to cover fees, taxes or to reach an arbitrary balance limit required for withdrawals. The scammer will offer to front you money to pay some of the fees. The scammer will encourage you to take on loans, mortgages, credit cards and anything they can to bleed you dry.\nKEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THESE COMMON RED FLAGS\n:\nMESSAGES FROM STRANGERS: or people pretending to know you.\nTRANSLATION ERRORS: Many scammers are based overseas and translate their messages.\nSpelling and grammatical errors can be an early sign of a scam.\nANONYMOUS MESSAGING: Strangers asking to switch from texts or social media\nmessaging to anonymous apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, and Signal.\nNEW EXCHANGES: Regulated exchanges require you to submit Know-your-customer\ninformation like a picture of your drivers license in order to convert dollars to cryptocurrency. Scammers will require you to buy crypto through a regulated exchange, then transfer your cryptocurrency to a new exchange that they control.\nINSIDER CONNECTIONS: Scammers promise they have inside connections with trading groups, famous brokers, exchanges or trading platforms.\nTOO GOOD TO BE TRUE: If an investment seems too good to be true, it probably is. If they had such a guaranteed profit, they would go to banks, not individuals.\nTEACHING: promises to teach you how to trade in cryptocurrency options on their platform or mentor you on your journey.\nGUIDANCE: The stranger will walk you through every step, asking for screenshots to confirm you have followed instructions.\nURGENCY: The scammer will say you need invest quickly before you miss the chance.\nLARGE FEES: associated with withdrawing money from your account.\nTAXES: Americans usually do not pay taxes when they withdraw from exchanges, but the\nscammers will say you must pay a tax to withdraw, often at 20% or other high rates.\nF\nOLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE\nDo not reveal information about your personal finances or investments.\nDo not transfer, trade, or invest money with a stranger online.\nDo not share Personal Identifying Information (PII) online with strangers.\nInvestigate any website or platform before entering any personal or financial information.\nBe cautious if a stranger is offering special investments or extraordinary profits. If it feels too\ngood to be true, it probably is.\nS\nTEPS TO TAKE IF VICTIM OF A PIG\n-\nBUTCHERING SCAM\nImmediately stop transferring any money to the suspected scammer.\nReport the crime to your bank as soon as possible.\nYou may need to speak with a tax professional to report the loss on your annual taxes.\nGet a police report from your local law enforcement agency.\nContact the Georgia Secretary of State at\n[email protected]\nor call (470)-312-2640.\nContact the United States Secret Service Atlanta Field Office at\nhttps:\/\/www.secretservice.gov\/\nor call (404)-331-6111.\nFile a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at\nhttps:\/\/www.ic3.gov\/\n, your\nlocal FBI Field Office at\nhttps:\/\/www.fbi.gov\/investigate\n, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at\nhttps:\/\/reportfraud.ftc.gov\/\n###\nAnnouncement: INVESTOR ALERT: Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig-Butchering","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering#main-content)\n\n[![Georgia Secretary of State logo](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/themes\/custom\/gsos_theme\/logo.svg)](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/)   Georgia   \n **Secretary of State**   \n Brad Raffensperger\n\n- [SOS Office](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## The Office of the Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger\n  The Georgia Secretary of State oversees voting, tracks annual corporate filings, grants professional licenses, and oversees the state's securities' market.\n  \n  - [SOS Office Homepage](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/homepage)\n    \n    Secretary Brad Raffensperger and his staff are honored to serve the citizens of Georgia.\n  - [About Secretary Raffensperger](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-secretary-raffensperger)\n    \n    Get to know Georgia's Secretary of State.\n  - [Staff Directory](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/staff-directory)\n    \n    View our staff directory and contact information.\n  - [Employment & Internships](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/careers)\n    \n    Apply for a job\/internship at our office.\n  - [Proof of Citizenship](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/proof-citizenship)\n    \n    Documents that serve as acceptable proof of citizenship in the state of Georgia.\n  - [Open Records Requests](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-open-records)\n    \n    All Georgia public records are available for inspection and copying unless they are specifically exempted from disclosure under the law.\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [ADA Grievance Complaints](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/ada-grievance-procedure-complaint)\n  - [Student Ambassadors Program](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/student-ambassador-program)\n  - [Claims Advisory Board](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/claims-advisory-board)\n  - [Stop Voter Fraud](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/stop-voter-fraud)\n  - [Contact Us](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/contact-us)\n  - [GA WORKS](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/ga-works-licensing-commission)\n- [Business](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Corporations Division\n  Corporations, limited liability companies, and limited partnerships in Georgia are formed by filing with the Corporations Division. Some foreign (out-of-state) entities which do business in Georgia also must file with the Corporations Division.\n  \n  - [The Corporations Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/corporations-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n    \n    The Corporations Division of the Georgia Secretary of State\n  - [Search for a Business](https:\/\/ecorp.sos.ga.gov\/BusinessSearch)\n    \n    Search for a Georgia registered business entity\n  - [Create a Domestic Entity](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-register-domestic-entity)\n    \n    How To Create a Domestic Entity in Georgia\n  - [Business FAQs](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/business-division-faq)\n    \n    Browse Business FAQs\n  - [Complete Annual Registration](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-file-annual-registration)\n    \n    How To Complete Annual Registration\n  - [Register a Foreign Entity](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-to-guide-register-foreign-entity)\n    \n    How to Register a Foreign Entity in Georgia\n  - [Filing Fees](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/filing-fees-and-expedited-processing-document-filings)\n    \n    Filing Fees and Expedited Processing of Document Filings\n  - [Online Services](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-online-services)\n    \n    Conveniently Complete Many Filings Online\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [First Stop Information Center](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/first-stop-business-information-center)\n  - [Which Legal Entity is Right for Your Business](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2022-01\/legal_entity.pdf)\n  - [Georgia Department of Economic Development](https:\/\/www.georgia.org\/)\n  - [Georgia Chamber of Commerce](https:\/\/www.gachamber.com\/)\n  - [U.S. Small Business Administration](https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/)\n  - [FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Information](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/fincen-beneficial-ownership-information)\n- [Charities](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Charities Division\n  The Charities division enforces the laws regulating charitable organizations, paid solicitors, and solicitor agents.\n  \n  - [Charities Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/charities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n    \n    Charities information for the State of Georgia\n  - [Charities How-To Guide](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-charitable-organization)\n    \n    How to start, register, renew, amend, reinstate, or withdraw a charity in Georgia\n  - [About the Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-charities-division)\n    \n    Learn about the Charities Division\n  - [Contact Us](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/contact-office-secretary-state-charities-division)\n    \n    Contact the Charities Division\n  - [File a Complaint](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/complaint-office-secretary-state-charities-division)\n    \n    File a complaint regarding licensed or unlicensed individuals\n  - [FAQ](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/charities-division-faq)\n    \n    Frequently asked questions about Charities\n  - [Verify Permit](https:\/\/verify.sos.ga.gov\/Verification)\n    \n    Verify a Charitable Org\n  - [Subscribe To Updates](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications)\n    \n    Subscribe to update notifications from the Charities Division\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance](https:\/\/www.give.org\/)\n  - [GuideStar](https:\/\/www.guidestar.org\/)\n  - [Charity Navigator](https:\/\/www.charitynavigator.org\/)\n  - [Charity Watch](https:\/\/www.charitywatch.org\/)\n  - [IRS-Charities and Non-Profits](https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-and-nonprofits)\n  - [Search for Tax-Exempt Orgs](https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/search-for-tax-exempt-organizations)\n- [Elections](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Elections Division\n  Proud to be of service to Georgia’s voters and candidates, the Elections Division of the Secretary of State’s Office organizes and oversees all election activity, including voter registration, municipal, state, county, and federal elections.\n  \n  - [Elections Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/elections)\n    \n    The Georgia Elections Division - Landing Page\n  - [Election Results](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-election-results)\n    \n    Results for recent and historical elections in Georgia\n  - [How and Where to Vote](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-voting)\n    \n    Voting methods and where to find your polling location\n  - [Register to Vote](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-registering-vote)\n    \n    Eligible Georgians can register to vote online\n  - [Check Voter Registration](https:\/\/www.mvp.sos.ga.gov\/MVP\/mvp.do)\n    \n    Check your voter registration information\n  - [Election Details and Calendar](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/election-calendar-and-events)\n    \n    Election & Registration Timelines\n  - [Order Voter Lists](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/order-voter-registration-lists-and-files)\n    \n    Request and Order Voter Registration Lists and Files\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [Receive a Great Seal Certification](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/great-seal-authentication-administrative-services)\n  - [Online Voter Registration](https:\/\/registertovote.sos.ga.gov\/GAOLVR\/)\n  - [My Voter Page](https:\/\/www.mvp.sos.ga.gov\/MVP\/mvp.do)\n  - [Georgia Election Code](https:\/\/advance.lexis.com\/container?config=00JAAzZDgzNzU2ZC05MDA0LTRmMDItYjkzMS0xOGY3MjE3OWNlODIKAFBvZENhdGFsb2fcIFfJnJ2IC8XZi1AYM4Ne&crid=58721016-8884-457f-974e-fb44deb1184d&prid=bd499165-9fca-4c50-8f79-12325ece061b)\n  - [Voters With Disabilities](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/voting-assistance-people-disabilities)\n  - [VoteSafe](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/votesafe)\n- [Securities](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Securities Division\n  The Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of State is charged with the implementation and enforcement of the Georgia Uniform Securities Act of 2008.\n  \n  - [Securities Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n    \n    The Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of State\n  - [About the Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-securities-division)\n    \n    Get to know the Georgia Securities Division\n  - [Cemeteries](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/board-cemeterians)\n    \n    The Board of Cemeterians licenses and regulates cemeteries\n  - [FAQs](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/securities-division-faq)\n    \n    Frequently asked questions regarding Securities\n  - [File Online](https:\/\/georgiasos.seamlessdocs.com\/f\/offeringUploadForm)\n    \n    Securities Offering Upload Form\n  - [File a Complaint](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/complaint-office-secretary-state-securities-division)\n    \n    Submit a complaint to the Securities Division\n  - [Securities Forms](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/search?division=Securities&board=&type=form&query=)\n    \n    Forms related to Georgia Securities Division\n  - [Financial Literacy Programs](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office#Financial%20Literacy%20Programs)\n    \n    Programs empowering Georgians to optimally manage their finances and build financial success.\n  - [Subscribe To Updates](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications)\n    \n    Subscribe to update notifications from the Securities Division\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [FINRA Broker Check](https:\/\/brokercheck.finra.org\/)\n  - [Investment Advisor Lookup](https:\/\/adviserinfo.sec.gov\/)\n  - [Investor Education and Protection Resources](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/investor-education-and-protection-resources)\n  - [Military Families Financial Field Manual](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/military-resource-guides)\n  - [Registering and Notice Filing a Securities Offering](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/registering-and-notice-filing-securities-offering)\n  - [Investor & Financial Literacy Guide](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/investor-financial-literacy-guide)\n- [Licensing](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Professional Licensing Boards Division\n  The Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Secretary of State’s Office provides administrative support to the 42 licensing boards housed with our agency.\n  \n  - [Licensing Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/licensing-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n    \n    The Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Secretary of State’s Office\n  - [About the Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-licensing-division)\n    \n    Learn about the Georgia Licensing Division\n  - [Apply for a License](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/)\n    \n    Submit an online license application\n  - [File a Complaint](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/how-submit-licensing-complaint)\n    \n    File a complaint regarding licensed or unlicensed individuals\n  - [Renew License\/Change Address](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/)\n    \n    Renew your license\n  - [Licensee Search](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/GASOSOneStop\/s\/licensee-search)\n    \n    Search for a licensee\n  - [Open Records Request](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-open-records)\n    \n    For third party individuals (who are not licensees) requesting a paper License Verification\n  - [Subscribe to Updates](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications)\n    \n    Receive licensing updates and notifications\n  - [Georgia Licensing Boards](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-licensing-boards)\n    \n    List of Georgia Licensing Boards\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [Roster Request - Online](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/GASOSOneStop\/s\/roster-request)\n  - [Roster Requests - Download Form](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/licensing-roster-requests-form)\n  - [General Provisions and Joint Secretary Proposed Rules](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/joint-secretary-general-provisions-and-proposed-rules)\n  - [Joint Secretary Licensing Rules](http:\/\/rules.sos.ga.gov\/gac\/295)\n  - [Order Georgia License Verification](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/)\n  - [Print Your Georgia License](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/)\n- [Search](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n\n- [SOS Office](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## The Office of the Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger\n  The Georgia Secretary of State oversees voting, tracks annual corporate filings, grants professional licenses, and oversees the state's securities' market.\n  \n  - [SOS Office Homepage](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/homepage)\n    \n    Secretary Brad Raffensperger and his staff are honored to serve the citizens of Georgia.\n  - [About Secretary Raffensperger](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-secretary-raffensperger)\n    \n    Get to know Georgia's Secretary of State.\n  - [Staff Directory](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/staff-directory)\n    \n    View our staff directory and contact information.\n  - [Employment & Internships](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/careers)\n    \n    Apply for a job\/internship at our office.\n  - [Proof of Citizenship](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/proof-citizenship)\n    \n    Documents that serve as acceptable proof of citizenship in the state of Georgia.\n  - [Open Records Requests](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-open-records)\n    \n    All Georgia public records are available for inspection and copying unless they are specifically exempted from disclosure under the law.\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [ADA Grievance Complaints](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/ada-grievance-procedure-complaint)\n  - [Student Ambassadors Program](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/student-ambassador-program)\n  - [Claims Advisory Board](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/claims-advisory-board)\n  - [Stop Voter Fraud](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/stop-voter-fraud)\n  - [Contact Us](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/contact-us)\n  - [GA WORKS](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/ga-works-licensing-commission)\n- [Business](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Corporations Division\n  Corporations, limited liability companies, and limited partnerships in Georgia are formed by filing with the Corporations Division. Some foreign (out-of-state) entities which do business in Georgia also must file with the Corporations Division.\n  \n  - [The Corporations Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/corporations-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n    \n    The Corporations Division of the Georgia Secretary of State\n  - [Search for a Business](https:\/\/ecorp.sos.ga.gov\/BusinessSearch)\n    \n    Search for a Georgia registered business entity\n  - [Create a Domestic Entity](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-register-domestic-entity)\n    \n    How To Create a Domestic Entity in Georgia\n  - [Business FAQs](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/business-division-faq)\n    \n    Browse Business FAQs\n  - [Complete Annual Registration](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-file-annual-registration)\n    \n    How To Complete Annual Registration\n  - [Register a Foreign Entity](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-to-guide-register-foreign-entity)\n    \n    How to Register a Foreign Entity in Georgia\n  - [Filing Fees](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/filing-fees-and-expedited-processing-document-filings)\n    \n    Filing Fees and Expedited Processing of Document Filings\n  - [Online Services](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-online-services)\n    \n    Conveniently Complete Many Filings Online\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [First Stop Information Center](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/first-stop-business-information-center)\n  - [Which Legal Entity is Right for Your Business](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2022-01\/legal_entity.pdf)\n  - [Georgia Department of Economic Development](https:\/\/www.georgia.org\/)\n  - [Georgia Chamber of Commerce](https:\/\/www.gachamber.com\/)\n  - [U.S. Small Business Administration](https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/)\n  - [FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Information](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/fincen-beneficial-ownership-information)\n- [Charities](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Charities Division\n  The Charities division enforces the laws regulating charitable organizations, paid solicitors, and solicitor agents.\n  \n  - [Charities Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/charities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n    \n    Charities information for the State of Georgia\n  - [Charities How-To Guide](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-charitable-organization)\n    \n    How to start, register, renew, amend, reinstate, or withdraw a charity in Georgia\n  - [About the Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-charities-division)\n    \n    Learn about the Charities Division\n  - [Contact Us](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/contact-office-secretary-state-charities-division)\n    \n    Contact the Charities Division\n  - [File a Complaint](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/complaint-office-secretary-state-charities-division)\n    \n    File a complaint regarding licensed or unlicensed individuals\n  - [FAQ](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/charities-division-faq)\n    \n    Frequently asked questions about Charities\n  - [Verify Permit](https:\/\/verify.sos.ga.gov\/Verification)\n    \n    Verify a Charitable Org\n  - [Subscribe To Updates](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications)\n    \n    Subscribe to update notifications from the Charities Division\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance](https:\/\/www.give.org\/)\n  - [GuideStar](https:\/\/www.guidestar.org\/)\n  - [Charity Navigator](https:\/\/www.charitynavigator.org\/)\n  - [Charity Watch](https:\/\/www.charitywatch.org\/)\n  - [IRS-Charities and Non-Profits](https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-and-nonprofits)\n  - [Search for Tax-Exempt Orgs](https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/search-for-tax-exempt-organizations)\n- [Elections](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Elections Division\n  Proud to be of service to Georgia’s voters and candidates, the Elections Division of the Secretary of State’s Office organizes and oversees all election activity, including voter registration, municipal, state, county, and federal elections.\n  \n  - [Elections Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/elections)\n    \n    The Georgia Elections Division - Landing Page\n  - [Election Results](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-election-results)\n    \n    Results for recent and historical elections in Georgia\n  - [How and Where to Vote](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-voting)\n    \n    Voting methods and where to find your polling location\n  - [Register to Vote](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-registering-vote)\n    \n    Eligible Georgians can register to vote online\n  - [Check Voter Registration](https:\/\/www.mvp.sos.ga.gov\/MVP\/mvp.do)\n    \n    Check your voter registration information\n  - [Election Details and Calendar](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/election-calendar-and-events)\n    \n    Election & Registration Timelines\n  - [Order Voter Lists](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/order-voter-registration-lists-and-files)\n    \n    Request and Order Voter Registration Lists and Files\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [Receive a Great Seal Certification](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/great-seal-authentication-administrative-services)\n  - [Online Voter Registration](https:\/\/registertovote.sos.ga.gov\/GAOLVR\/)\n  - [My Voter Page](https:\/\/www.mvp.sos.ga.gov\/MVP\/mvp.do)\n  - [Georgia Election Code](https:\/\/advance.lexis.com\/container?config=00JAAzZDgzNzU2ZC05MDA0LTRmMDItYjkzMS0xOGY3MjE3OWNlODIKAFBvZENhdGFsb2fcIFfJnJ2IC8XZi1AYM4Ne&crid=58721016-8884-457f-974e-fb44deb1184d&prid=bd499165-9fca-4c50-8f79-12325ece061b)\n  - [Voters With Disabilities](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/voting-assistance-people-disabilities)\n  - [VoteSafe](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/votesafe)\n- [Securities](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Securities Division\n  The Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of State is charged with the implementation and enforcement of the Georgia Uniform Securities Act of 2008.\n  \n  - [Securities Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n    \n    The Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of State\n  - [About the Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-securities-division)\n    \n    Get to know the Georgia Securities Division\n  - [Cemeteries](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/board-cemeterians)\n    \n    The Board of Cemeterians licenses and regulates cemeteries\n  - [FAQs](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/securities-division-faq)\n    \n    Frequently asked questions regarding Securities\n  - [File Online](https:\/\/georgiasos.seamlessdocs.com\/f\/offeringUploadForm)\n    \n    Securities Offering Upload Form\n  - [File a Complaint](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/complaint-office-secretary-state-securities-division)\n    \n    Submit a complaint to the Securities Division\n  - [Securities Forms](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/search?division=Securities&board=&type=form&query=)\n    \n    Forms related to Georgia Securities Division\n  - [Financial Literacy Programs](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office#Financial%20Literacy%20Programs)\n    \n    Programs empowering Georgians to optimally manage their finances and build financial success.\n  - [Subscribe To Updates](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications)\n    \n    Subscribe to update notifications from the Securities Division\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [FINRA Broker Check](https:\/\/brokercheck.finra.org\/)\n  - [Investment Advisor Lookup](https:\/\/adviserinfo.sec.gov\/)\n  - [Investor Education and Protection Resources](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/investor-education-and-protection-resources)\n  - [Military Families Financial Field Manual](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/military-resource-guides)\n  - [Registering and Notice Filing a Securities Offering](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/registering-and-notice-filing-securities-offering)\n  - [Investor & Financial Literacy Guide](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/investor-financial-literacy-guide)\n- [Licensing](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n  ## Georgia Professional Licensing Boards Division\n  The Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Secretary of State’s Office provides administrative support to the 42 licensing boards housed with our agency.\n  \n  - [Licensing Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/licensing-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n    \n    The Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Secretary of State’s Office\n  - [About the Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-licensing-division)\n    \n    Learn about the Georgia Licensing Division\n  - [Apply for a License](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/)\n    \n    Submit an online license application\n  - [File a Complaint](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/how-submit-licensing-complaint)\n    \n    File a complaint regarding licensed or unlicensed individuals\n  - [Renew License\/Change Address](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/)\n    \n    Renew your license\n  - [Licensee Search](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/GASOSOneStop\/s\/licensee-search)\n    \n    Search for a licensee\n  - [Open Records Request](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-open-records)\n    \n    For third party individuals (who are not licensees) requesting a paper License Verification\n  - [Subscribe to Updates](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications)\n    \n    Receive licensing updates and notifications\n  - [Georgia Licensing Boards](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-licensing-boards)\n    \n    List of Georgia Licensing Boards\n  \n  ### MORE RESOURCES\n  - [Roster Request - Online](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/GASOSOneStop\/s\/roster-request)\n  - [Roster Requests - Download Form](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/licensing-roster-requests-form)\n  - [General Provisions and Joint Secretary Proposed Rules](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/joint-secretary-general-provisions-and-proposed-rules)\n  - [Joint Secretary Licensing Rules](http:\/\/rules.sos.ga.gov\/gac\/295)\n  - [Order Georgia License Verification](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/)\n  - [Print Your Georgia License](https:\/\/goals.sos.ga.gov\/)\n- [Search](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering)\n\nSecurities Menu\n\n- [Securities Resources](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office)\n  - [About The Division](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/about-securities-division)\n  - [Rules, Regulations, Orders](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/node\/543)\n  - [Alerts & Outreach](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/scam-warnings)\n  - [Investor & Financial Literacy Guide](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/investor-financial-literacy-guide)\n- [Financial Literacy](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office#Financial%20Literacy%20Programs)\n- [Cemeteries](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/board-cemeterians)\n- [Securities FAQ](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/securities-division-faq)\n  - [Frequently Asked Questions](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/securities-division-faq)\n  - [File a Complaint](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/complaint-office-secretary-state-securities-division)\n  - [Contact Securities](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/contact-office-secretary-state-securities-division)\n- [How To Guides](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/search?division=Securities&type=how_to_guide&query=)\n  - [Filing Forms](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/registering-and-notice-filing-securities-offering)\n  - [Investment Adviser](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-register-investment-adviser)\n  - [Investment Adviser Representative](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-register-investment-adviser-representative)\n  - [Broker Dealer](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-register-broker-dealer)\n  - [Broker Dealer Agent](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-register-broker-dealer-agent)\n  - [Federally Covered Advisor](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/how-to-guide\/how-guide-register-federally-covered-advisor)\n- [Invest Georgia Exemption](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/invest-georgia-exemption)\n\n[Home](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/) \\> [The Securities Division of the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) \\> [Investor Alerts and Outreach](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/investor-alerts-and-outreach) \\> Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig Butchering\n\n# Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig Butchering\n\n## INVESTOR ALERT: Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig-Butchering\n*Issued: July 19, 2023*\n\nThe Secretary of State’s Division of Securities and Charities is issuing this Investor Alert to warn investors about the latest investment fraud, Pig-Butchering. This is a cryptocurrency scam that has been targeting Georgia investors this summer.\n\n“Pig butchering scams” as they were named in southeast Asia, are scams where scammers build the victim’s confidence through casual conversation with a real person who eventually convinces the victim that they will help them make money. It’s called “pig butchering” because the alleged scammer continually feeds the victim information as they fatten the victim with excitement and the promise of great investment returns.\n\nScam artists will use your phone number or address to contact you in an attempt to take your money if they can. Scammers also scour social media, business records and even dating sites to find information to target potential victims. They will contact you through social media, text messages, email, mail, Whatsapp etc.\n\n**H****OW** **T****HE** **S****CAM** **W****ORKS**\n\nThe scammer may pretend to be an old friend, a trusted public figure, your boss or even a prospective romantic partner. The conversations will slowly begin to center around investments or cryptocurrency, asking questions about your financial background and investing habits. The scammer’s goal is not to request money from you, but to convince you to invest in a fake trading website or platform that will show you a bogus balance with lots of profit.\n\nThe scammer will “fatten the pig” by allowing you to withdraw profits early so you will trust the process and invest more. They may even “lend” you money so that you can make larger trades. The promise of high return encourages victims to invest all they can.\n\nWhen you try to withdraw large sums, the website will require more money to cover fees, taxes or to reach an arbitrary balance limit required for withdrawals. The scammer will offer to front you money to pay some of the fees. The scammer will encourage you to take on loans, mortgages, credit cards and anything they can to bleed you dry.\n\n**KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THESE COMMON RED FLAGS****:**\n\n- MESSAGES FROM STRANGERS: or people pretending to know you.\n- TRANSLATION ERRORS: Many scammers are based overseas and translate their messages.\n  Spelling and grammatical errors can be an early sign of a scam.\n- ANONYMOUS MESSAGING: Strangers asking to switch from texts or social media\n  messaging to anonymous apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, and Signal.\n- NEW EXCHANGES: Regulated exchanges require you to submit Know-your-customer\n  information like a picture of your drivers license in order to convert dollars to cryptocurrency. Scammers will require you to buy crypto through a regulated exchange, then transfer your cryptocurrency to a new exchange that they control.\n- INSIDER CONNECTIONS: Scammers promise they have inside connections with trading groups, famous brokers, exchanges or trading platforms.\n- TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE: If an investment seems too good to be true, it probably is. If they had such a guaranteed profit, they would go to banks, not individuals.\n- TEACHING: promises to teach you how to trade in cryptocurrency options on their platform or mentor you on your journey.\n- GUIDANCE: The stranger will walk you through every step, asking for screenshots to confirm you have followed instructions.\n- URGENCY: The scammer will say you need invest quickly before you miss the chance.\n- LARGE FEES: associated with withdrawing money from your account.\n- TAXES: Americans usually do not pay taxes when they withdraw from exchanges, but the\n  scammers will say you must pay a tax to withdraw, often at 20% or other high rates.\n\n**F****OLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE**\n\n- Do not reveal information about your personal finances or investments.\n- Do not transfer, trade, or invest money with a stranger online.\n- Do not share Personal Identifying Information (PII) online with strangers.\n- Investigate any website or platform before entering any personal or financial information.\n- Be cautious if a stranger is offering special investments or extraordinary profits. If it feels too\n  good to be true, it probably is.\n\n**S****TEPS TO TAKE IF VICTIM OF A PIG****\\-****BUTCHERING SCAM**\n\n- Immediately stop transferring any money to the suspected scammer.\n- Report the crime to your bank as soon as possible.\n- You may need to speak with a tax professional to report the loss on your annual taxes.\n- Get a police report from your local law enforcement agency.\n- Contact the Georgia Secretary of State at [\\[email protected\\]](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/cdn-cgi\/l\/email-protection) or call (470)-312-2640.\n- Contact the United States Secret Service Atlanta Field Office at [https:\/\/www.secretservice.gov\/](https:\/\/www.secretservice.gov\/%20)\n  or call (404)-331-6111.\n- File a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https:\/\/www.ic3.gov\/, your\n  local FBI Field Office at https:\/\/www.fbi.gov\/investigate, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at <https:\/\/reportfraud.ftc.gov\/>\n\n\\###\n\n[Announcement: INVESTOR ALERT: Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig-Butchering](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2023-07\/Pig-Butchering%20Investor%20Alert%207.19.2023%20%28amended%29.pdf)\n\n## Contact\nAddress\n\n2 MLK Jr Dr SE   \n Ste 317, West Tower   \n Atlanta, Georgia 30334\n\nPhone\n\n[(470) 312-2640](tel:%28470%29312-2640)\n\nEmail\n\n[Send Email](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/contact-office-secretary-state-securities-division)\n\n[Send Email](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/contact-office-secretary-state-securities-division)\n\n- [Office of Brad Raffensperger](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/homepage)\n- [News & Announcements](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/news\/division\/31)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/privacy-policy)\n- [Security](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/page\/georgia-secretary-state-agency-security)\n\n214 State Capitol  \nAtlanta, Georgia 30334\n\n[Contact Us](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/form\/contact-us)  © 2026 Georgia Secretary of State\n\nTop","attrs_readable_markdown":"*Issued: July 19, 2023*\n\nThe Secretary of State’s Division of Securities and Charities is issuing this Investor Alert to warn investors about the latest investment fraud, Pig-Butchering. This is a cryptocurrency scam that has been targeting Georgia investors this summer.\n\n“Pig butchering scams” as they were named in southeast Asia, are scams where scammers build the victim’s confidence through casual conversation with a real person who eventually convinces the victim that they will help them make money. It’s called “pig butchering” because the alleged scammer continually feeds the victim information as they fatten the victim with excitement and the promise of great investment returns.\n\nScam artists will use your phone number or address to contact you in an attempt to take your money if they can. Scammers also scour social media, business records and even dating sites to find information to target potential victims. They will contact you through social media, text messages, email, mail, Whatsapp etc.\n\n**H****OW** **T****HE** **S****CAM** **W****ORKS**\n\nThe scammer may pretend to be an old friend, a trusted public figure, your boss or even a prospective romantic partner. The conversations will slowly begin to center around investments or cryptocurrency, asking questions about your financial background and investing habits. The scammer’s goal is not to request money from you, but to convince you to invest in a fake trading website or platform that will show you a bogus balance with lots of profit.\n\nThe scammer will “fatten the pig” by allowing you to withdraw profits early so you will trust the process and invest more. They may even “lend” you money so that you can make larger trades. The promise of high return encourages victims to invest all they can.\n\nWhen you try to withdraw large sums, the website will require more money to cover fees, taxes or to reach an arbitrary balance limit required for withdrawals. The scammer will offer to front you money to pay some of the fees. The scammer will encourage you to take on loans, mortgages, credit cards and anything they can to bleed you dry.\n\n**KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THESE COMMON RED FLAGS****:**\n\n- MESSAGES FROM STRANGERS: or people pretending to know you.\n- TRANSLATION ERRORS: Many scammers are based overseas and translate their messages.\n  Spelling and grammatical errors can be an early sign of a scam.\n- ANONYMOUS MESSAGING: Strangers asking to switch from texts or social media\n  messaging to anonymous apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, and Signal.\n- NEW EXCHANGES: Regulated exchanges require you to submit Know-your-customer\n  information like a picture of your drivers license in order to convert dollars to cryptocurrency. Scammers will require you to buy crypto through a regulated exchange, then transfer your cryptocurrency to a new exchange that they control.\n- INSIDER CONNECTIONS: Scammers promise they have inside connections with trading groups, famous brokers, exchanges or trading platforms.\n- TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE: If an investment seems too good to be true, it probably is. If they had such a guaranteed profit, they would go to banks, not individuals.\n- TEACHING: promises to teach you how to trade in cryptocurrency options on their platform or mentor you on your journey.\n- GUIDANCE: The stranger will walk you through every step, asking for screenshots to confirm you have followed instructions.\n- URGENCY: The scammer will say you need invest quickly before you miss the chance.\n- LARGE FEES: associated with withdrawing money from your account.\n- TAXES: Americans usually do not pay taxes when they withdraw from exchanges, but the\n  scammers will say you must pay a tax to withdraw, often at 20% or other high rates.\n\n**F****OLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE**\n\n- Do not reveal information about your personal finances or investments.\n- Do not transfer, trade, or invest money with a stranger online.\n- Do not share Personal Identifying Information (PII) online with strangers.\n- Investigate any website or platform before entering any personal or financial information.\n- Be cautious if a stranger is offering special investments or extraordinary profits. If it feels too\n  good to be true, it probably is.\n\n**S****TEPS TO TAKE IF VICTIM OF A PIG****\\-****BUTCHERING SCAM**\n\n- Immediately stop transferring any money to the suspected scammer.\n- Report the crime to your bank as soon as possible.\n- You may need to speak with a tax professional to report the loss on your annual taxes.\n- Get a police report from your local law enforcement agency.\n- Contact the Georgia Secretary of State at [\\[email protected\\]](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/cdn-cgi\/l\/email-protection) or call (470)-312-2640.\n- Contact the United States Secret Service Atlanta Field Office at <https:\/\/www.secretservice.gov\/>\n  or call (404)-331-6111.\n- File a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https:\/\/www.ic3.gov\/, your\n  local FBI Field Office at https:\/\/www.fbi.gov\/investigate, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at <https:\/\/reportfraud.ftc.gov\/>\n\n\\###\n\n[Announcement: INVESTOR ALERT: Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig-Butchering](https:\/\/sos.ga.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2023-07\/Pig-Butchering%20Investor%20Alert%207.19.2023%20%28amended%29.pdf)","meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering
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Meta Title	Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig Butchering \| Georgia Secretary of State
Meta Description	The Secretary of State’s Division of Securities and Charities is issuing this Investor Alert to warn investors about the latest investment fraud, Pig-Butchering. This is a cryptocurrency scam that has been targeting Georgia investors this summer.
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Boilerpipe Text	Issued: July 19, 2023 The Secretary of State’s Division of Securities and Charities is issuing this Investor Alert to warn investors about the latest investment fraud, Pig-Butchering. This is a cryptocurrency scam that has been targeting Georgia investors this summer. “Pig butchering scams” as they were named in southeast Asia, are scams where scammers build the victim’s confidence through casual conversation with a real person who eventually convinces the victim that they will help them make money. It’s called “pig butchering” because the alleged scammer continually feeds the victim information as they fatten the victim with excitement and the promise of great investment returns. Scam artists will use your phone number or address to contact you in an attempt to take your money if they can. Scammers also scour social media, business records and even dating sites to find information to target potential victims. They will contact you through social media, text messages, email, mail, Whatsapp etc. H OW T HE S CAM W ORKS The scammer may pretend to be an old friend, a trusted public figure, your boss or even a prospective romantic partner. The conversations will slowly begin to center around investments or cryptocurrency, asking questions about your financial background and investing habits. The scammer’s goal is not to request money from you, but to convince you to invest in a fake trading website or platform that will show you a bogus balance with lots of profit. The scammer will “fatten the pig” by allowing you to withdraw profits early so you will trust the process and invest more. They may even “lend” you money so that you can make larger trades. The promise of high return encourages victims to invest all they can. When you try to withdraw large sums, the website will require more money to cover fees, taxes or to reach an arbitrary balance limit required for withdrawals. The scammer will offer to front you money to pay some of the fees. The scammer will encourage you to take on loans, mortgages, credit cards and anything they can to bleed you dry. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THESE COMMON RED FLAGS : MESSAGES FROM STRANGERS: or people pretending to know you. TRANSLATION ERRORS: Many scammers are based overseas and translate their messages. Spelling and grammatical errors can be an early sign of a scam. ANONYMOUS MESSAGING: Strangers asking to switch from texts or social media messaging to anonymous apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, and Signal. NEW EXCHANGES: Regulated exchanges require you to submit Know-your-customer information like a picture of your drivers license in order to convert dollars to cryptocurrency. Scammers will require you to buy crypto through a regulated exchange, then transfer your cryptocurrency to a new exchange that they control. INSIDER CONNECTIONS: Scammers promise they have inside connections with trading groups, famous brokers, exchanges or trading platforms. TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE: If an investment seems too good to be true, it probably is. If they had such a guaranteed profit, they would go to banks, not individuals. TEACHING: promises to teach you how to trade in cryptocurrency options on their platform or mentor you on your journey. GUIDANCE: The stranger will walk you through every step, asking for screenshots to confirm you have followed instructions. URGENCY: The scammer will say you need invest quickly before you miss the chance. LARGE FEES: associated with withdrawing money from your account. TAXES: Americans usually do not pay taxes when they withdraw from exchanges, but the scammers will say you must pay a tax to withdraw, often at 20% or other high rates. F OLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE Do not reveal information about your personal finances or investments. Do not transfer, trade, or invest money with a stranger online. Do not share Personal Identifying Information (PII) online with strangers. Investigate any website or platform before entering any personal or financial information. Be cautious if a stranger is offering special investments or extraordinary profits. If it feels too good to be true, it probably is. S TEPS TO TAKE IF VICTIM OF A PIG - BUTCHERING SCAM Immediately stop transferring any money to the suspected scammer. Report the crime to your bank as soon as possible. You may need to speak with a tax professional to report the loss on your annual taxes. Get a police report from your local law enforcement agency. Contact the Georgia Secretary of State at [email protected] or call (470)-312-2640. Contact the United States Secret Service Atlanta Field Office at https://www.secretservice.gov/ or call (404)-331-6111. File a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https://www.ic3.gov/ , your local FBI Field Office at https://www.fbi.gov/investigate , the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ ### Announcement: INVESTOR ALERT: Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig-Butchering
Markdown	[Skip to main content](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering#main-content) [![Georgia Secretary of State logo](https://sos.ga.gov/themes/custom/gsos_theme/logo.svg)](https://sos.ga.gov/) Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger - [SOS Office](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## The Office of the Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger The Georgia Secretary of State oversees voting, tracks annual corporate filings, grants professional licenses, and oversees the state's securities' market. - [SOS Office Homepage](https://sos.ga.gov/homepage) Secretary Brad Raffensperger and his staff are honored to serve the citizens of Georgia. - [About Secretary Raffensperger](https://sos.ga.gov/page/about-secretary-raffensperger) Get to know Georgia's Secretary of State. - [Staff Directory](https://sos.ga.gov/page/staff-directory) View our staff directory and contact information. - [Employment & Internships](https://sos.ga.gov/page/careers) Apply for a job/internship at our office. - [Proof of Citizenship](https://sos.ga.gov/page/proof-citizenship) Documents that serve as acceptable proof of citizenship in the state of Georgia. - [Open Records Requests](https://sos.ga.gov/page/georgia-open-records) All Georgia public records are available for inspection and copying unless they are specifically exempted from disclosure under the law. ### MORE RESOURCES - [ADA Grievance Complaints](https://sos.ga.gov/form/ada-grievance-procedure-complaint) - [Student Ambassadors Program](https://sos.ga.gov/page/student-ambassador-program) - [Claims Advisory Board](https://sos.ga.gov/page/claims-advisory-board) - [Stop Voter Fraud](https://sos.ga.gov/form/stop-voter-fraud) - [Contact Us](https://sos.ga.gov/form/contact-us) - [GA WORKS](https://sos.ga.gov/ga-works-licensing-commission) - [Business](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Corporations Division Corporations, limited liability companies, and limited partnerships in Georgia are formed by filing with the Corporations Division. Some foreign (out-of-state) entities which do business in Georgia also must file with the Corporations Division. - [The Corporations Division](https://sos.ga.gov/corporations-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) The Corporations Division of the Georgia Secretary of State - [Search for a Business](https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/BusinessSearch) Search for a Georgia registered business entity - [Create a Domestic Entity](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-register-domestic-entity) How To Create a Domestic Entity in Georgia - [Business FAQs](https://sos.ga.gov/page/business-division-faq) Browse Business FAQs - [Complete Annual Registration](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-file-annual-registration) How To Complete Annual Registration - [Register a Foreign Entity](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-to-guide-register-foreign-entity) How to Register a Foreign Entity in Georgia - [Filing Fees](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/filing-fees-and-expedited-processing-document-filings) Filing Fees and Expedited Processing of Document Filings - [Online Services](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-online-services) Conveniently Complete Many Filings Online ### MORE RESOURCES - [First Stop Information Center](https://sos.ga.gov/page/first-stop-business-information-center) - [Which Legal Entity is Right for Your Business](https://sos.ga.gov/sites/default/files/2022-01/legal_entity.pdf) - [Georgia Department of Economic Development](https://www.georgia.org/) - [Georgia Chamber of Commerce](https://www.gachamber.com/) - [U.S. Small Business Administration](https://www.sba.gov/) - [FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Information](https://sos.ga.gov/page/fincen-beneficial-ownership-information) - [Charities](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Charities Division The Charities division enforces the laws regulating charitable organizations, paid solicitors, and solicitor agents. - [Charities Division](https://sos.ga.gov/charities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) Charities information for the State of Georgia - [Charities How-To Guide](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-charitable-organization) How to start, register, renew, amend, reinstate, or withdraw a charity in Georgia - [About the Division](https://sos.ga.gov/page/about-charities-division) Learn about the Charities Division - [Contact Us](https://sos.ga.gov/form/contact-office-secretary-state-charities-division) Contact the Charities Division - [File a Complaint](https://sos.ga.gov/form/complaint-office-secretary-state-charities-division) File a complaint regarding licensed or unlicensed individuals - [FAQ](https://sos.ga.gov/page/charities-division-faq) Frequently asked questions about Charities - [Verify Permit](https://verify.sos.ga.gov/Verification) Verify a Charitable Org - [Subscribe To Updates](https://sos.ga.gov/form/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications) Subscribe to update notifications from the Charities Division ### MORE RESOURCES - [Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance](https://www.give.org/) - [GuideStar](https://www.guidestar.org/) - [Charity Navigator](https://www.charitynavigator.org/) - [Charity Watch](https://www.charitywatch.org/) - [IRS-Charities and Non-Profits](https://www.irs.gov/charities-and-nonprofits) - [Search for Tax-Exempt Orgs](https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/search-for-tax-exempt-organizations) - [Elections](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Elections Division Proud to be of service to Georgia’s voters and candidates, the Elections Division of the Secretary of State’s Office organizes and oversees all election activity, including voter registration, municipal, state, county, and federal elections. - [Elections Division](https://sos.ga.gov/elections) The Georgia Elections Division - Landing Page - [Election Results](https://sos.ga.gov/page/georgia-election-results) Results for recent and historical elections in Georgia - [How and Where to Vote](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-voting) Voting methods and where to find your polling location - [Register to Vote](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-registering-vote) Eligible Georgians can register to vote online - [Check Voter Registration](https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do) Check your voter registration information - [Election Details and Calendar](https://sos.ga.gov/page/election-calendar-and-events) Election & Registration Timelines - [Order Voter Lists](https://sos.ga.gov/page/order-voter-registration-lists-and-files) Request and Order Voter Registration Lists and Files ### MORE RESOURCES - [Receive a Great Seal Certification](https://sos.ga.gov/page/great-seal-authentication-administrative-services) - [Online Voter Registration](https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/) - [My Voter Page](https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do) - [Georgia Election Code](https://advance.lexis.com/container?config=00JAAzZDgzNzU2ZC05MDA0LTRmMDItYjkzMS0xOGY3MjE3OWNlODIKAFBvZENhdGFsb2fcIFfJnJ2IC8XZi1AYM4Ne&crid=58721016-8884-457f-974e-fb44deb1184d&prid=bd499165-9fca-4c50-8f79-12325ece061b) - [Voters With Disabilities](https://sos.ga.gov/page/voting-assistance-people-disabilities) - [VoteSafe](https://sos.ga.gov/page/votesafe) - [Securities](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Securities Division The Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of State is charged with the implementation and enforcement of the Georgia Uniform Securities Act of 2008. - [Securities Division](https://sos.ga.gov/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) The Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of State - [About the Division](https://sos.ga.gov/page/about-securities-division) Get to know the Georgia Securities Division - [Cemeteries](https://sos.ga.gov/board-cemeterians) The Board of Cemeterians licenses and regulates cemeteries - [FAQs](https://sos.ga.gov/page/securities-division-faq) Frequently asked questions regarding Securities - [File Online](https://georgiasos.seamlessdocs.com/f/offeringUploadForm) Securities Offering Upload Form - [File a Complaint](https://sos.ga.gov/form/complaint-office-secretary-state-securities-division) Submit a complaint to the Securities Division - [Securities Forms](https://sos.ga.gov/search?division=Securities&board=&type=form&query=) Forms related to Georgia Securities Division - [Financial Literacy Programs](https://sos.ga.gov/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office#Financial%20Literacy%20Programs) Programs empowering Georgians to optimally manage their finances and build financial success. - [Subscribe To Updates](https://sos.ga.gov/form/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications) Subscribe to update notifications from the Securities Division ### MORE RESOURCES - [FINRA Broker Check](https://brokercheck.finra.org/) - [Investment Advisor Lookup](https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/) - [Investor Education and Protection Resources](https://sos.ga.gov/page/investor-education-and-protection-resources) - [Military Families Financial Field Manual](https://sos.ga.gov/page/military-resource-guides) - [Registering and Notice Filing a Securities Offering](https://sos.ga.gov/page/registering-and-notice-filing-securities-offering) - [Investor & Financial Literacy Guide](https://sos.ga.gov/page/investor-financial-literacy-guide) - [Licensing](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Professional Licensing Boards Division The Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Secretary of State’s Office provides administrative support to the 42 licensing boards housed with our agency. - [Licensing Division](https://sos.ga.gov/licensing-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) The Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Secretary of State’s Office - [About the Division](https://sos.ga.gov/page/about-licensing-division) Learn about the Georgia Licensing Division - [Apply for a License](https://goals.sos.ga.gov/) Submit an online license application - [File a Complaint](https://sos.ga.gov/page/how-submit-licensing-complaint) File a complaint regarding licensed or unlicensed individuals - [Renew License/Change Address](https://goals.sos.ga.gov/) Renew your license - [Licensee Search](https://goals.sos.ga.gov/GASOSOneStop/s/licensee-search) Search for a licensee - [Open Records Request](https://sos.ga.gov/page/georgia-open-records) For third party individuals (who are not licensees) requesting a paper License Verification - [Subscribe to Updates](https://sos.ga.gov/form/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications) Receive licensing updates and notifications - [Georgia Licensing Boards](https://sos.ga.gov/page/georgia-licensing-boards) List of Georgia Licensing Boards ### MORE RESOURCES - [Roster Request - Online](https://goals.sos.ga.gov/GASOSOneStop/s/roster-request) - [Roster Requests - Download Form](https://sos.ga.gov/page/licensing-roster-requests-form) - [General Provisions and Joint Secretary Proposed Rules](https://sos.ga.gov/page/joint-secretary-general-provisions-and-proposed-rules) - [Joint Secretary Licensing Rules](http://rules.sos.ga.gov/gac/295) - [Order Georgia License Verification](https://goals.sos.ga.gov/) - [Print Your Georgia License](https://goals.sos.ga.gov/) - [Search](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) - [SOS Office](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## The Office of the Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger The Georgia Secretary of State oversees voting, tracks annual corporate filings, grants professional licenses, and oversees the state's securities' market. - [SOS Office Homepage](https://sos.ga.gov/homepage) Secretary Brad Raffensperger and his staff are honored to serve the citizens of Georgia. - [About Secretary Raffensperger](https://sos.ga.gov/page/about-secretary-raffensperger) Get to know Georgia's Secretary of State. - [Staff Directory](https://sos.ga.gov/page/staff-directory) View our staff directory and contact information. - [Employment & Internships](https://sos.ga.gov/page/careers) Apply for a job/internship at our office. - [Proof of Citizenship](https://sos.ga.gov/page/proof-citizenship) Documents that serve as acceptable proof of citizenship in the state of Georgia. - [Open Records Requests](https://sos.ga.gov/page/georgia-open-records) All Georgia public records are available for inspection and copying unless they are specifically exempted from disclosure under the law. ### MORE RESOURCES - [ADA Grievance Complaints](https://sos.ga.gov/form/ada-grievance-procedure-complaint) - [Student Ambassadors Program](https://sos.ga.gov/page/student-ambassador-program) - [Claims Advisory Board](https://sos.ga.gov/page/claims-advisory-board) - [Stop Voter Fraud](https://sos.ga.gov/form/stop-voter-fraud) - [Contact Us](https://sos.ga.gov/form/contact-us) - [GA WORKS](https://sos.ga.gov/ga-works-licensing-commission) - [Business](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Corporations Division Corporations, limited liability companies, and limited partnerships in Georgia are formed by filing with the Corporations Division. Some foreign (out-of-state) entities which do business in Georgia also must file with the Corporations Division. - [The Corporations Division](https://sos.ga.gov/corporations-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) The Corporations Division of the Georgia Secretary of State - [Search for a Business](https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/BusinessSearch) Search for a Georgia registered business entity - [Create a Domestic Entity](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-register-domestic-entity) How To Create a Domestic Entity in Georgia - [Business FAQs](https://sos.ga.gov/page/business-division-faq) Browse Business FAQs - [Complete Annual Registration](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-file-annual-registration) How To Complete Annual Registration - [Register a Foreign Entity](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-to-guide-register-foreign-entity) How to Register a Foreign Entity in Georgia - [Filing Fees](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/filing-fees-and-expedited-processing-document-filings) Filing Fees and Expedited Processing of Document Filings - [Online Services](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-online-services) Conveniently Complete Many Filings Online ### MORE RESOURCES - [First Stop Information Center](https://sos.ga.gov/page/first-stop-business-information-center) - [Which Legal Entity is Right for Your Business](https://sos.ga.gov/sites/default/files/2022-01/legal_entity.pdf) - [Georgia Department of Economic Development](https://www.georgia.org/) - [Georgia Chamber of Commerce](https://www.gachamber.com/) - [U.S. Small Business Administration](https://www.sba.gov/) - [FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Information](https://sos.ga.gov/page/fincen-beneficial-ownership-information) - [Charities](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Charities Division The Charities division enforces the laws regulating charitable organizations, paid solicitors, and solicitor agents. - [Charities Division](https://sos.ga.gov/charities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) Charities information for the State of Georgia - [Charities How-To Guide](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-charitable-organization) How to start, register, renew, amend, reinstate, or withdraw a charity in Georgia - [About the Division](https://sos.ga.gov/page/about-charities-division) Learn about the Charities Division - [Contact Us](https://sos.ga.gov/form/contact-office-secretary-state-charities-division) Contact the Charities Division - [File a Complaint](https://sos.ga.gov/form/complaint-office-secretary-state-charities-division) File a complaint regarding licensed or unlicensed individuals - [FAQ](https://sos.ga.gov/page/charities-division-faq) Frequently asked questions about Charities - [Verify Permit](https://verify.sos.ga.gov/Verification) Verify a Charitable Org - [Subscribe To Updates](https://sos.ga.gov/form/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications) Subscribe to update notifications from the Charities Division ### MORE RESOURCES - [Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance](https://www.give.org/) - [GuideStar](https://www.guidestar.org/) - [Charity Navigator](https://www.charitynavigator.org/) - [Charity Watch](https://www.charitywatch.org/) - [IRS-Charities and Non-Profits](https://www.irs.gov/charities-and-nonprofits) - [Search for Tax-Exempt Orgs](https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/search-for-tax-exempt-organizations) - [Elections](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Elections Division Proud to be of service to Georgia’s voters and candidates, the Elections Division of the Secretary of State’s Office organizes and oversees all election activity, including voter registration, municipal, state, county, and federal elections. - [Elections Division](https://sos.ga.gov/elections) The Georgia Elections Division - Landing Page - [Election Results](https://sos.ga.gov/page/georgia-election-results) Results for recent and historical elections in Georgia - [How and Where to Vote](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-voting) Voting methods and where to find your polling location - [Register to Vote](https://sos.ga.gov/how-to-guide/how-guide-registering-vote) Eligible Georgians can register to vote online - [Check Voter Registration](https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do) Check your voter registration information - [Election Details and Calendar](https://sos.ga.gov/page/election-calendar-and-events) Election & Registration Timelines - [Order Voter Lists](https://sos.ga.gov/page/order-voter-registration-lists-and-files) Request and Order Voter Registration Lists and Files ### MORE RESOURCES - [Receive a Great Seal Certification](https://sos.ga.gov/page/great-seal-authentication-administrative-services) - [Online Voter Registration](https://registertovote.sos.ga.gov/GAOLVR/) - [My Voter Page](https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do) - [Georgia Election Code](https://advance.lexis.com/container?config=00JAAzZDgzNzU2ZC05MDA0LTRmMDItYjkzMS0xOGY3MjE3OWNlODIKAFBvZENhdGFsb2fcIFfJnJ2IC8XZi1AYM4Ne&crid=58721016-8884-457f-974e-fb44deb1184d&prid=bd499165-9fca-4c50-8f79-12325ece061b) - [Voters With Disabilities](https://sos.ga.gov/page/voting-assistance-people-disabilities) - [VoteSafe](https://sos.ga.gov/page/votesafe) - [Securities](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Securities Division The Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of State is charged with the implementation and enforcement of the Georgia Uniform Securities Act of 2008. - [Securities Division](https://sos.ga.gov/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) The Securities Division of the Office of the Secretary of State - [About the Division](https://sos.ga.gov/page/about-securities-division) Get to know the Georgia Securities Division - [Cemeteries](https://sos.ga.gov/board-cemeterians) The Board of Cemeterians licenses and regulates cemeteries - [FAQs](https://sos.ga.gov/page/securities-division-faq) Frequently asked questions regarding Securities - [File Online](https://georgiasos.seamlessdocs.com/f/offeringUploadForm) Securities Offering Upload Form - [File a Complaint](https://sos.ga.gov/form/complaint-office-secretary-state-securities-division) Submit a complaint to the Securities Division - [Securities Forms](https://sos.ga.gov/search?division=Securities&board=&type=form&query=) Forms related to Georgia Securities Division - [Financial Literacy Programs](https://sos.ga.gov/securities-division-georgia-secretary-states-office#Financial%20Literacy%20Programs) Programs empowering Georgians to optimally manage their finances and build financial success. - [Subscribe To Updates](https://sos.ga.gov/form/interested-parties-list-proposed-rule-changes-and-other-notifications) Subscribe to update notifications from the Securities Division ### MORE RESOURCES - [FINRA Broker Check](https://brokercheck.finra.org/) - [Investment Advisor Lookup](https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/) - [Investor Education and Protection Resources](https://sos.ga.gov/page/investor-education-and-protection-resources) - [Military Families Financial Field Manual](https://sos.ga.gov/page/military-resource-guides) - [Registering and Notice Filing a Securities Offering](https://sos.ga.gov/page/registering-and-notice-filing-securities-offering) - [Investor & Financial Literacy Guide](https://sos.ga.gov/page/investor-financial-literacy-guide) - [Licensing](https://sos.ga.gov/page/cryptocurrency-scam-pig-butchering) ## Georgia Professional Licensing Boards Division The Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Secretary of State’s Office provides administrative support to the 42 licensing boards housed with our agency. - [Licensing Division](https://sos.ga.gov/licensing-division-georgia-secretary-states-office) The Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Secretary of State’s Office - [About the Division](https://sos.ga.gov/page/about-licensing-division) Learn about the Georgia Licensing Division - [Apply for a License](https://goals.sos.ga.gov/) Submit an online license application - [File a Complaint](https://sos.ga.gov/page/how-submit-licensing-complaint) File a complaint regarding licensed or unlicensed individuals - 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This is a cryptocurrency scam that has been targeting Georgia investors this summer. “Pig butchering scams” as they were named in southeast Asia, are scams where scammers build the victim’s confidence through casual conversation with a real person who eventually convinces the victim that they will help them make money. It’s called “pig butchering” because the alleged scammer continually feeds the victim information as they fatten the victim with excitement and the promise of great investment returns. Scam artists will use your phone number or address to contact you in an attempt to take your money if they can. Scammers also scour social media, business records and even dating sites to find information to target potential victims. They will contact you through social media, text messages, email, mail, Whatsapp etc. HOW THE SCAM WORKS The scammer may pretend to be an old friend, a trusted public figure, your boss or even a prospective romantic partner. The conversations will slowly begin to center around investments or cryptocurrency, asking questions about your financial background and investing habits. The scammer’s goal is not to request money from you, but to convince you to invest in a fake trading website or platform that will show you a bogus balance with lots of profit. The scammer will “fatten the pig” by allowing you to withdraw profits early so you will trust the process and invest more. They may even “lend” you money so that you can make larger trades. The promise of high return encourages victims to invest all they can. When you try to withdraw large sums, the website will require more money to cover fees, taxes or to reach an arbitrary balance limit required for withdrawals. The scammer will offer to front you money to pay some of the fees. The scammer will encourage you to take on loans, mortgages, credit cards and anything they can to bleed you dry. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THESE COMMON RED FLAGS: - MESSAGES FROM STRANGERS: or people pretending to know you. - TRANSLATION ERRORS: Many scammers are based overseas and translate their messages. Spelling and grammatical errors can be an early sign of a scam. - ANONYMOUS MESSAGING: Strangers asking to switch from texts or social media messaging to anonymous apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, and Signal. - NEW EXCHANGES: Regulated exchanges require you to submit Know-your-customer information like a picture of your drivers license in order to convert dollars to cryptocurrency. Scammers will require you to buy crypto through a regulated exchange, then transfer your cryptocurrency to a new exchange that they control. - INSIDER CONNECTIONS: Scammers promise they have inside connections with trading groups, famous brokers, exchanges or trading platforms. - TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE: If an investment seems too good to be true, it probably is. If they had such a guaranteed profit, they would go to banks, not individuals. - TEACHING: promises to teach you how to trade in cryptocurrency options on their platform or mentor you on your journey. - GUIDANCE: The stranger will walk you through every step, asking for screenshots to confirm you have followed instructions. - URGENCY: The scammer will say you need invest quickly before you miss the chance. - LARGE FEES: associated with withdrawing money from your account. - TAXES: Americans usually do not pay taxes when they withdraw from exchanges, but the scammers will say you must pay a tax to withdraw, often at 20% or other high rates. FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE - Do not reveal information about your personal finances or investments. - Do not transfer, trade, or invest money with a stranger online. - Do not share Personal Identifying Information (PII) online with strangers. - Investigate any website or platform before entering any personal or financial information. - Be cautious if a stranger is offering special investments or extraordinary profits. If it feels too good to be true, it probably is. STEPS TO TAKE IF VICTIM OF A PIG\-BUTCHERING SCAM - Immediately stop transferring any money to the suspected scammer. - Report the crime to your bank as soon as possible. - You may need to speak with a tax professional to report the loss on your annual taxes. - Get a police report from your local law enforcement agency. - Contact the Georgia Secretary of State at [\[email protected\]](https://sos.ga.gov/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection) or call (470)-312-2640. - Contact the United States Secret Service Atlanta Field Office at [https://www.secretservice.gov/](https://www.secretservice.gov/%20) or call (404)-331-6111. - File a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https://www.ic3.gov/, your local FBI Field Office at https://www.fbi.gov/investigate, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at <https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/> \### [Announcement: INVESTOR ALERT: Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig-Butchering](https://sos.ga.gov/sites/default/files/2023-07/Pig-Butchering%20Investor%20Alert%207.19.2023%20%28amended%29.pdf) ## Contact Address 2 MLK Jr Dr SE Ste 317, West Tower Atlanta, Georgia 30334 Phone [(470) 312-2640](tel:%28470%29312-2640) Email [Send Email](https://sos.ga.gov/form/contact-office-secretary-state-securities-division) [Send Email](https://sos.ga.gov/form/contact-office-secretary-state-securities-division) - [Office of Brad Raffensperger](https://sos.ga.gov/homepage) - [News & Announcements](https://sos.ga.gov/news/division/31) - [Privacy Policy](https://sos.ga.gov/page/privacy-policy) - [Security](https://sos.ga.gov/page/georgia-secretary-state-agency-security) 214 State Capitol Atlanta, Georgia 30334 [Contact Us](https://sos.ga.gov/form/contact-us) © 2026 Georgia Secretary of State Top
Readable Markdown	Issued: July 19, 2023 The Secretary of State’s Division of Securities and Charities is issuing this Investor Alert to warn investors about the latest investment fraud, Pig-Butchering. This is a cryptocurrency scam that has been targeting Georgia investors this summer. “Pig butchering scams” as they were named in southeast Asia, are scams where scammers build the victim’s confidence through casual conversation with a real person who eventually convinces the victim that they will help them make money. It’s called “pig butchering” because the alleged scammer continually feeds the victim information as they fatten the victim with excitement and the promise of great investment returns. Scam artists will use your phone number or address to contact you in an attempt to take your money if they can. Scammers also scour social media, business records and even dating sites to find information to target potential victims. They will contact you through social media, text messages, email, mail, Whatsapp etc. HOW THE SCAM WORKS The scammer may pretend to be an old friend, a trusted public figure, your boss or even a prospective romantic partner. The conversations will slowly begin to center around investments or cryptocurrency, asking questions about your financial background and investing habits. The scammer’s goal is not to request money from you, but to convince you to invest in a fake trading website or platform that will show you a bogus balance with lots of profit. The scammer will “fatten the pig” by allowing you to withdraw profits early so you will trust the process and invest more. They may even “lend” you money so that you can make larger trades. The promise of high return encourages victims to invest all they can. When you try to withdraw large sums, the website will require more money to cover fees, taxes or to reach an arbitrary balance limit required for withdrawals. The scammer will offer to front you money to pay some of the fees. The scammer will encourage you to take on loans, mortgages, credit cards and anything they can to bleed you dry. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THESE COMMON RED FLAGS: - MESSAGES FROM STRANGERS: or people pretending to know you. - TRANSLATION ERRORS: Many scammers are based overseas and translate their messages. Spelling and grammatical errors can be an early sign of a scam. - ANONYMOUS MESSAGING: Strangers asking to switch from texts or social media messaging to anonymous apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber, and Signal. - NEW EXCHANGES: Regulated exchanges require you to submit Know-your-customer information like a picture of your drivers license in order to convert dollars to cryptocurrency. Scammers will require you to buy crypto through a regulated exchange, then transfer your cryptocurrency to a new exchange that they control. - INSIDER CONNECTIONS: Scammers promise they have inside connections with trading groups, famous brokers, exchanges or trading platforms. - TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE: If an investment seems too good to be true, it probably is. If they had such a guaranteed profit, they would go to banks, not individuals. - TEACHING: promises to teach you how to trade in cryptocurrency options on their platform or mentor you on your journey. - GUIDANCE: The stranger will walk you through every step, asking for screenshots to confirm you have followed instructions. - URGENCY: The scammer will say you need invest quickly before you miss the chance. - LARGE FEES: associated with withdrawing money from your account. - TAXES: Americans usually do not pay taxes when they withdraw from exchanges, but the scammers will say you must pay a tax to withdraw, often at 20% or other high rates. FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE - Do not reveal information about your personal finances or investments. - Do not transfer, trade, or invest money with a stranger online. - Do not share Personal Identifying Information (PII) online with strangers. - Investigate any website or platform before entering any personal or financial information. - Be cautious if a stranger is offering special investments or extraordinary profits. If it feels too good to be true, it probably is. STEPS TO TAKE IF VICTIM OF A PIG\-BUTCHERING SCAM - Immediately stop transferring any money to the suspected scammer. - Report the crime to your bank as soon as possible. - You may need to speak with a tax professional to report the loss on your annual taxes. - Get a police report from your local law enforcement agency. - Contact the Georgia Secretary of State at [\[email protected\]](https://sos.ga.gov/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection) or call (470)-312-2640. - Contact the United States Secret Service Atlanta Field Office at <https://www.secretservice.gov/> or call (404)-331-6111. - File a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https://www.ic3.gov/, your local FBI Field Office at https://www.fbi.gov/investigate, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at <https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/> \### [Announcement: INVESTOR ALERT: Cryptocurrency Scam: Pig-Butchering](https://sos.ga.gov/sites/default/files/2023-07/Pig-Butchering%20Investor%20Alert%207.19.2023%20%28amended%29.pdf)
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