CryptoMonk777

A Russian self-styled “crypto guru” is once again at the center of controversy after emerging evidence suggests he played a key role in a new multimillion-dollar cryptocurrency scam — this time involving a globe-trotting influencer and even a disgraced Oscar-winning actor.

The investigation, revealed by journalists Scilla Alecci and Fergus Shiel, sheds light on an ambitious but highly dubious project that blended celebrity appeal, online hype, and aggressive marketing tactics. The story has quickly become a case study in how fraudsters are increasingly trying to legitimize crypto schemes through flashy branding and Hollywood connections.

A Mastermind With a Troubled Past

The central figure of this saga is a Russian crypto promoter known for selling bold promises, lavish lifestyles, and “guaranteed” profits. Despite past accusations and warnings from financial regulators, he resurfaced with an even more elaborate plan: a new coin and investment platform marketed as a “game-changing” ecosystem.

Behind the scenes, however, investigators say the project was designed to funnel investor money into shell companies, with little transparency and virtually no real technology backing its claims.

The Influencer Connection

To boost credibility, the crypto guru teamed up with a high-profile influencer — a jet-setting figure known for luxury posts and motivational content. Their combined online presence helped attract thousands of hopeful investors, many of whom believed they were buying into an exclusive opportunity guided by “industry experts.”

The influencer heavily promoted the project through Instagram, YouTube, and private Telegram groups. Promotional footage included exotic locations, expensive cars, and staged networking events designed to sell the illusion of legitimacy.

A Disgraced Oscar Winner Enters the Picture

One of the most surprising twists is the involvement of a once-celebrated Hollywood actor who previously won an Academy Award but has since seen his career collapse due to scandal. According to the investigation, the actor lent his name, image, and presence at several VIP events associated with the project.

His participation gave the scheme a level of glamour and media attention that scammers often struggle to obtain. But investigators say the actor either failed to understand the nature of the project — or chose not to ask too many questions.

A Familiar Pattern: Big Promises, Bigger Losses

As with many crypto scams, the initial hype drove rapid investment. Early participants were promised huge returns, exclusive memberships, and access to a “global blockchain revolution.” But when users began requesting withdrawals, delays and excuses started piling up.

Internal documents obtained by the reporters show that the project lacked real financial backing or technological infrastructure. Most of the money appears to have been funneled into marketing, high-profile events, and personal spending.

Investors Left With Questions

Thousands of small investors across multiple countries now face the possibility that their funds are gone. Regulators are beginning to examine the case, but the key players — including the Russian promoter — continue to deny any wrongdoing, claiming critics are “attacking innovation.”

For many, this story is a painful reminder of how easily online influence, celebrity endorsements, and crypto hype can blur the line between a legitimate project and a sophisticated fraud.

A Warning for the Crypto World

The Hollywood-style rollout of this scam shows how far bad actors are willing to go to gain trust — and how vulnerable global investors remain in the face of high-gloss deception.

As investigations continue, one thing is clear: whenever crypto meets glamour, caution is not optional.

#BTC90kBreakingPoint
Bitcoin has been struggling since its shocking drop below $100,000, and the price has hovered around $90K ever since — even slipping under that level in the last 24 hours. Sentiment is fearful, traders are nervous, and everyone is wondering whether the bull run is over.
But according to analyst Tony “The Bull” Severino, the next big move could actually be up, not down.
A Death Cross just formed on the Bitcoin chart — normally a bearish signal — but this one showed up late in the downtrend. Historically, late Death Crosses often happen near the end of a correction, not the beginning of a new crash.
That means sellers may be exhausted.
On-chain data also shows whales quietly accumulating Bitcoin during the dip, while leverage in the futures market has been flushed out. With the chart oversold and support holding around $88K–$90K, BTC has a real chance to bounce hard.
If Bitcoin breaks above its short-term resistance, a fast move toward $110,000 is absolutely possible this week.
In crypto, maximum fear usually comes right before maximum opportunity.

💳 Mastercard Selects Polygon to Power Verified Username Transfers for Self-Custody Wallets
Mastercard has taken another major step into Web3 by choosing Polygon to power its new “Mastercard Verified Username” system — a feature designed to make crypto transfers safer and easier for users with self-custody wallets.
What Is Mastercard Verified Username?This system allows users to create a unique, verified username linked to their wallet. Instead of copying long and confusing wallet addresses, users can simply send funds to a simple name, reducing the risk of mistakes and fraudulent transactions.

Why Polygon?
Mastercard selected Polygon’s scalable, low-cost network for its speed, security, and ability to handle large numbers of on-chain identity verifications. Polygon’s infrastructure makes it possible for the Verified Username system to work seamlessly without high gas fees or delays.
What This Means for Crypto Users
Easier Payments: No need to deal with long wallet addresses.
More Security: Verified usernames reduce the chance of sending funds to the wrong person.
Better User Experience: Self-custody wallets become more beginner-friendly.
Mainstream Adoption: Mastercard integrating Web3 tools signals growing acceptance of crypto technology.
The Bigger Picture
Mastercard’s move shows how traditional financial giants are adapting to blockchain innovation. By merging verified identity with decentralized wallets, the company aims to bring trust and convenience to everyday crypto transactions.
This partnership also strengthens Polygon’s role as a leading infrastructure layer for large-scale enterprise adoption.