🕷️ Crawler Inspector

[](https://www.staysafeonline.org/) [RESOURCES RESOURCES](https://www.staysafeonline.org/resources/online-safety-and-privacy) [INITIATIVES INITIATIVES](https://www.staysafeonline.org/initiatives) [ABOUT US ABOUT US](https://www.staysafeonline.org/aboutus) [Back]() [Subscribe]() [ ]() Online Safety and Privacy Jul 7, 2025 \| 5 Min Read # What Are Common Crypto Scams? Cryptocurrency investment scams are big business, but you can keep your wallet safe.  Cryptocurrency sounds like money from the future, but scammers are already here and they’re after your dollars, both real and digital\! From fake bitcoin giveaways to romance scams to shady investment “opportunities,” crypto scams are exploding in popularity. The FBI reports that Americans lose over \$9 billion per year to cryptocurrency investment fraud, and this is likely a low estimate due to underreporting. “Cryptocurrency scams are stealing billions and wrecking lives, and it’s not because people are careless or naive," says Erin West, founder of [Operation Shamrock](https://operationshamrock.org/), an organization focused on raising awareness about pig butchering scams. "These scams are highly organized, emotionally manipulative, and designed to bypass your defenses. Talking about them openly is how we fight back.” However, you can fight back and keep your wallet locked up. Let's learn about the common crypto scams, how they work, and most importantly, how you can avoid them\! ## What is a cryptocurrency scam? A cryptocurrency scam is any trick or scheme designed to steal your digital currency, like bitcoin or Ethereum. Scammers also attempt to persuade you to hand over personal information or cash under the promise of crypto riches. Scammers love crypto because: - Transactions are hard – and often impossible – to reverse. - There’s no central authority to report to. - Lots of people are interested in it but don’t fully understand how it works. Now that's a recipe for fraud... ## Common crypto scams to watch out for ### 1\. Too-good-to-be-true investments Someone promises massive returns on your crypto investment. Think: “Double your bitcoin in 24 hours!” They offer their services...and then disappear the moment you send your crypto over. Red flags: - High-pressure tactics - Vague or confusing “white papers - Anonymous founders or fake celebrity endorsements – [AI "deepfakes"](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/how-to-protect-yourself-against-deepfakes) might even be used\! ### 2\. Heartbreaking romance scams Scammers establish [emotional relationships online](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/online-romance-scams), then suddenly claim to have an emergency. “I need help unlocking my wallet,” they say. Or, “Let’s invest together!” These scams might unfold over weeks or months. The scammers might even show you doctored charts or apps that make it appear as though you're making money. [Pig butchering scams](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/what-is-pig-butchering-and-how-to-spot-the-scam) often include a romantic angle. Our general advice is to avoid mixing online romance and investing – if you feel pressured to break this rule, you're likely being scammed. Red flags: - Your crush won’t video chat - Your crush avoids in-person meetings - Your crush brings up crypto out of nowhere ### 3\. Phishing with crypto bait Fake emails or DMs from “Coinbase” or another crypto platform tell you your wallet is compromised. The link directs you to a fake login page where scammers attempt to steal your credentials. Red flags: - Spelling errors or weird URLs - Requests for your private wallet keys or passwords – never share this info\! - Messages with a sense of urgency (“Act now or lose everything!”) ### 4\. Pump and dump coins Social media influencers hype up a new altcoin. You buy in to avoid FOMO (that's the "fear of missing out"). The price spikes...then plummets toward zero when the scammers sell off their stash and vanish. Red flags: - Unverified claims of partnerships or tech - Paid promotions disguised as advice - No clear use case for the coin beyond a quick buck for early adopters ### 5\. Fake crypto apps You download a legit-looking crypto app, but you get malware instead. It drains your funds or steals your login info. Red flags: - Apps not found in official app stores (like Apple App Store or Google Play) - No reviews or seemingly fake ones - Poor design, broken features, and requests for suspicious app permissions ## How to avoid crypto scams While both cryptocurrency and scams are constantly evolving, there are a few habits you can adopt to invest online more safely. Because cryptocurrency is largely unregulated, it is essential to exercise caution with these emerging technologies. 1. **Do your research** before buying or investing in any coin or platform. 2. **Don’t trust financial advice from strangers** on social media or dating apps. 3. **Use reputable crypto wallets and exchanges** – stick to well-established and trusted brands. 4. **Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)** for every account. 5. **Never share your private key or seed phrase** with anyone, ever. Never click on links in alarming emails – go to your cryptocurrency account provider’s website directly. Also, don’t download apps from Test Flight (Apply) as those apps are not verified. ## Pro tip: If Tom Hanks DMs you about crypto, it’s not Tom Hanks Scammers love impersonating public figures. If someone famous messages you with a crypto giveaway or investment tip, assume it’s fake until proven otherwise. Today, AI is used to make realistic promo videos for scammy cryptos, so, unfortunately, you shouldn't believe your eyes when it comes to cryptocurrency ads. ## What to do if you get scammed If you think you’ve fallen for a crypto scam: - **Report it** to the FTC at [reportfraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/) and the FBI at [IC3](https://www.ic3.gov/). - **File a complaint** with the crypto platform like [Coinbase](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/fraud-suspicious-activity) or [Binance](https://www.binance.com/en/support/faq/detail/49b6dbdd87ed4c60b527375918ab5683). - **Document everything**, like screenshots, usernames, and wallet addresses. - **Tell your bank** if you paid with a debit or credit card. Even if you can’t recover your money, reporting helps stop the scam from spreading. ## Invest Safe Online and avoid the scammers Crypto is exciting, but scammers are hoping you’re too excited to think clearly. Slow down, double-check, and don’t let the promise of easy money cloud your judgment. Want a hot crypto tip? An amazing investment…is your own awareness. And if you want more scam-busting tips? Sign up for our [newsletter](https://www.staysafeonline.org/newsletter) and get cybersecurity info sent straight to your inbox\! Print Article in PDF [Save article as PDF]() # Featured Articles  # AI and the Future of Phishing: Interactive Tool Artificial intelligence has revolutionized scams and phishing. Scammers can use large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and other AI tools to craft very convincing messages and even target their emails to specific people. [Learn More](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/ai-and-the-future-of-phishing-interactive-tool)  # What is Multifactor Authentication (MFA) and How Do You Enable It? Today, when you protect an online account with just a password, you’re relying on a single lock in a world full of sneaky digital lockpickers. [Learn More](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/multi-factor-authentication) Select Language English # Subscribe to our newsletter [NCA Store](https://staysafeonline.dojiggyengage.com/) ## Resources [Online Safety and Privacy](https://www.staysafeonline.org/resources/online-safety-and-privacy) [Careers and Education](https://www.staysafeonline.org/resources/career-and-education) [Cybersecurity for Business](https://www.staysafeonline.org/resources/cybersecurity-for-business) [Cyber Dictionary](https://www.staysafeonline.org/resources/cyber-glossary#menu) [Toolkits](https://www.staysafeonline.org/resources/online-safety-and-privacy#toolkits) [All Articles and Resources](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles) [All Press Stories and Awards](https://www.staysafeonline.org/press) ## Initiatives [AI Fools](https://www.staysafeonline.org/aifools) [Data Privacy Week](https://www.staysafeonline.org/data-privacy-week) [Convene](https://www.staysafeonline.org/convene) [CyberSecure My Business](https://www.staysafeonline.org/cybersecure-my-business) [Cybersecurity Awareness Month](https://www.staysafeonline.org/cybersecurity-awareness-month) [See Yourself in Cyber](https://www.staysafeonline.org/see-yourself-in-cyber) [All Events](https://www.staysafeonline.org/events) ## About Us [Donate](https://www.staysafeonline.org/donate) [Collaborate](https://www.staysafeonline.org/collaborate) [Request a Speaker](https://www.staysafeonline.org/speaker) [Sponsor](https://www.staysafeonline.org/partner) [The NCA](https://www.staysafeonline.org/aboutus) [Contact Us](https://www.staysafeonline.org/aboutus#contact-us) ## Special Campaigns [Cyber Survival Guide](https://www.staysafeonline.org/campaigns/cyber-survival) [Kubikle](https://www.staysafeonline.org/campaigns/kubikle) [Phisher](https://www.staysafeonline.org/campaigns/phisher) [Safe Word](https://www.staysafeonline.org/campaigns/safeword) [Then & Now](https://www.staysafeonline.org/campaigns/thenandnow) Mailing Address: 717 Coliseum Drive NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27106 Copyright © 2026 Stay Safe Online. National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA). All Rights Reserved. [Cy Pres](https://www.staysafeonline.org/cypres) \| [Privacy Policy](https://www.staysafeonline.org/privacy-policy) \| [Code of Conduct](https://www.staysafeonline.org/code-of-conduct) \| [Brand Assets](https://www.staysafeonline.org/branding) \| [Terms of Use](https://www.staysafeonline.org/terms-of-use) Cookie Settings Cookie Settings We use cookies to enhance your experience, analyze site traffic, and deliver personalized content, like saving your favorite items.

Cryptocurrency sounds like money from the future, but scammers are already here and they’re after your dollars, both real and digital\! From fake bitcoin giveaways to romance scams to shady investment “opportunities,” crypto scams are exploding in popularity. The FBI reports that Americans lose over \$9 billion per year to cryptocurrency investment fraud, and this is likely a low estimate due to underreporting. “Cryptocurrency scams are stealing billions and wrecking lives, and it’s not because people are careless or naive," says Erin West, founder of [Operation Shamrock](https://operationshamrock.org/), an organization focused on raising awareness about pig butchering scams. "These scams are highly organized, emotionally manipulative, and designed to bypass your defenses. Talking about them openly is how we fight back.” However, you can fight back and keep your wallet locked up. Let's learn about the common crypto scams, how they work, and most importantly, how you can avoid them\! ## What is a cryptocurrency scam? A cryptocurrency scam is any trick or scheme designed to steal your digital currency, like bitcoin or Ethereum. Scammers also attempt to persuade you to hand over personal information or cash under the promise of crypto riches. Scammers love crypto because: - Transactions are hard – and often impossible – to reverse. - There’s no central authority to report to. - Lots of people are interested in it but don’t fully understand how it works. Now that's a recipe for fraud... ## Common crypto scams to watch out for ### 1\. Too-good-to-be-true investments Someone promises massive returns on your crypto investment. Think: “Double your bitcoin in 24 hours!” They offer their services...and then disappear the moment you send your crypto over. Red flags: - High-pressure tactics - Vague or confusing “white papers - Anonymous founders or fake celebrity endorsements – [AI "deepfakes"](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/how-to-protect-yourself-against-deepfakes) might even be used\! ### 2\. Heartbreaking romance scams Scammers establish [emotional relationships online](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/online-romance-scams), then suddenly claim to have an emergency. “I need help unlocking my wallet,” they say. Or, “Let’s invest together!” These scams might unfold over weeks or months. The scammers might even show you doctored charts or apps that make it appear as though you're making money. [Pig butchering scams](https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/what-is-pig-butchering-and-how-to-spot-the-scam) often include a romantic angle. Our general advice is to avoid mixing online romance and investing – if you feel pressured to break this rule, you're likely being scammed. Red flags: - Your crush won’t video chat - Your crush avoids in-person meetings - Your crush brings up crypto out of nowhere ### 3\. Phishing with crypto bait Fake emails or DMs from “Coinbase” or another crypto platform tell you your wallet is compromised. The link directs you to a fake login page where scammers attempt to steal your credentials. Red flags: - Spelling errors or weird URLs - Requests for your private wallet keys or passwords – never share this info\! - Messages with a sense of urgency (“Act now or lose everything!”) ### 4\. Pump and dump coins Social media influencers hype up a new altcoin. You buy in to avoid FOMO (that's the "fear of missing out"). The price spikes...then plummets toward zero when the scammers sell off their stash and vanish. Red flags: - Unverified claims of partnerships or tech - Paid promotions disguised as advice - No clear use case for the coin beyond a quick buck for early adopters ### 5\. Fake crypto apps You download a legit-looking crypto app, but you get malware instead. It drains your funds or steals your login info. Red flags: - Apps not found in official app stores (like Apple App Store or Google Play) - No reviews or seemingly fake ones - Poor design, broken features, and requests for suspicious app permissions ## How to avoid crypto scams While both cryptocurrency and scams are constantly evolving, there are a few habits you can adopt to invest online more safely. Because cryptocurrency is largely unregulated, it is essential to exercise caution with these emerging technologies. 1. **Do your research** before buying or investing in any coin or platform. 2. **Don’t trust financial advice from strangers** on social media or dating apps. 3. **Use reputable crypto wallets and exchanges** – stick to well-established and trusted brands. 4. **Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)** for every account. 5. **Never share your private key or seed phrase** with anyone, ever. Never click on links in alarming emails – go to your cryptocurrency account provider’s website directly. Also, don’t download apps from Test Flight (Apply) as those apps are not verified. ## Pro tip: If Tom Hanks DMs you about crypto, it’s not Tom Hanks Scammers love impersonating public figures. If someone famous messages you with a crypto giveaway or investment tip, assume it’s fake until proven otherwise. Today, AI is used to make realistic promo videos for scammy cryptos, so, unfortunately, you shouldn't believe your eyes when it comes to cryptocurrency ads. ## What to do if you get scammed If you think you’ve fallen for a crypto scam: - **Report it** to the FTC at [reportfraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/) and the FBI at [IC3](https://www.ic3.gov/). - **File a complaint** with the crypto platform like [Coinbase](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/fraud-suspicious-activity) or [Binance](https://www.binance.com/en/support/faq/detail/49b6dbdd87ed4c60b527375918ab5683). - **Document everything**, like screenshots, usernames, and wallet addresses. - **Tell your bank** if you paid with a debit or credit card. Even if you can’t recover your money, reporting helps stop the scam from spreading. ## Invest Safe Online and avoid the scammers Crypto is exciting, but scammers are hoping you’re too excited to think clearly. Slow down, double-check, and don’t let the promise of easy money cloud your judgment. Want a hot crypto tip? An amazing investment…is your own awareness. And if you want more scam-busting tips? Sign up for our [newsletter](https://www.staysafeonline.org/newsletter) and get cybersecurity info sent straight to your inbox\!