Have you ever been asked to make a payment to someone using cryptocurrency? Many people see this as a secure and confidential way to provide funds to another person, but be aware! Bad actors are out here and they want to exploit your interest and willingness.
The increased use of various forms of cryptocurrency has enabled cybercriminals to prey on victims in much the same way as in all scams except instead of traditional bank transfers or use of gift or money-pak type cards the object is your crypto assets. DO NOT engage with anyone you don’t have the ability to vet or see in person. Deposits into the black hole of a “wallet” in cyberworld have disappeared in the millions with our senior citizens especially targeted. Look out for the following;
- Investment opportunities with crypto using an unvetted entity;
- Fake lawyers and investigators who state they can recover lost crypto through a scam- it is another scam;
- Supposed “misdirected “ texts that are actually calculated to have you respond and engage you- delete them
- Fake Linked In or Indeed “jobs” involving crypto that are actually seeking people to unwittingly assist in money laundering through crypto transfers
- Fake posts on realty sites wherein scammers pose as realtors and seek “deposits” for properties they do not represent.
- Job sites are havens for people looking for your information- protect that in any way you can.
Before you use cryptocurrency to make any payments, you should learn more about how crypto-fraud works. The links below will take you to webpages with much more information.
Federal info:
- What To Know About Cryptocurrency and Scams | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)
- Did someone send you to a Bitcoin ATM? It’s a scam | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)
- Cryptocurrency deposits with no returns | Consumer Advice (ftc.gov)
- FBI Guidance for Cryptocurrency Scam Victims (ic3.gov)
- Increase in Companies Falsely Claiming an Ability to Recover Funds Lost in Cryptocurrency Investment Scams (ic3.gov)
- 2022_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf
Additional info: