加密货币诈骗

FBI Report: Cryptocurrency Fraud Losses Surge 66% in 2024, Reaching $9.3 Billion

According to the latest annual report from the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), cryptocurrency fraud losses skyrocketed by 66% in 2024, totaling $9.3 billion, with a significant portion of complaints coming from the elderly, raising concerns among investigative agencies about the potential risks.

In the past year, IC3 recorded over 140,000 complaints related to cryptocurrency, with total losses reaching $9.3 billion. Notably, individuals over 60 years old submitted approximately 33,000 complaints, resulting in losses of $2.8 billion, making them the most affected group. Their number of complaints and economic losses saw the largest increases, which is quite concerning.

The report indicated that compared to the total losses of $5.6 billion in 2023, losses this year increased by 66%. Investment scams were the primary cause, but other fraudulent methods, such as sexual extortion and cryptocurrency ATM fraud, were also present. Meanwhile, ransomware attacks are on the rise, posing an increasing threat to critical infrastructure. The elderly are particularly vulnerable to these digital scams.

What was once primarily a “pig butchering” scam targeting the elderly is now also starting to affect younger individuals, especially those aged 30 to 49. A recent study showed that over 200,000 scams occurred on cryptocurrency platforms in 2024, resulting in losses of $5.5 billion, with young people becoming the main victims.

To address this growing problem, the FBI and the United States Secret Service have launched a joint operation called “Operation Upgrade,” specifically targeting cryptocurrency investment fraud. In “pig butchering” scams, fraudsters establish online relationships and persuade victims to invest in fake cryptocurrency platforms.

This operation informed 4,323 victims, of whom 76% were unaware that they had been scammed, with total estimated financial losses reaching $285.6 million. Even more concerning, 42 victims were referred to FBI experts for assistance with potential suicidal tendencies.

These data remind us of the importance of staying vigilant in the face of the temptations of cryptocurrency. It is hoped that everyone can share this information to help those around them avoid scams and protect their own financial and mental health.

#加密货币诈骗 #老年人 #网络犯罪

U.S. State Police Crack Down on Cryptocurrency Fraud Cases Involving Over $4.9 Million

Recently, U.S. law enforcement achieved a major breakthrough in a nationwide cryptocurrency scam involving "wrong number texts." The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) successfully identified 33 victims, with the amount involved exceeding $4.9 million. Currently, police are conducting in-depth investigations into five other suspected accounts, and more victims are expected to come to light.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Ohio has taken direct action, requesting the seizure of $8.2 million worth of Tether (USDT).

These scammers use a rather simple tactic; they send random texts, pretending to be strangers from misdialed calls, and then engage in conversations about life and ideals. Once trust is established, they begin to lure victims into investing in seemingly "risk-free" cryptocurrency projects. However, once the funds are invested, they vanish without a trace.

In Mentor, Ohio, a woman named AH unfortunately fell into this scam trap. Last November, she unexpectedly received a "wrong number" text from someone claiming to be from Seattle. After some exchanges, the two seemed to become "confidants," and then quickly shifted to the topic of inducing her to invest in digital currency, claiming it was a "sure thing."

Thus, AH trusted the other party, opened an account on Crypto.com, and invested $250,000, and was instructed to transfer the funds into a specific cryptocurrency wallet. Unfortunately, once the funds were in place, the scammers disappeared without a trace.

After receiving the report, the FBI acted swiftly, using blockchain technology to trace the flow of funds. Through detailed investigations, they discovered that all the scam proceeds had been converted into USDT.

The FBI then, with assistance from Tether, applied to the court for a freezing order, forcing the scammers to return the funds. Ultimately, the $8.2 million was transferred to three designated addresses, prepared for return to the victims.

Police remind the public not to easily believe in the "get rich quick" myths spun by strangers, and to remain calm and think twice before making transfers.

Have you encountered a similar "wrong number text" scam? What do you think are the biggest warnings when it comes to cryptocurrency investments? Share your thoughts in the comments!

#加密货币诈骗 #防骗指南 #投资风险 #赃款追回

Every single day, it just won't stop, can't catch up, can't make it in time!
It's making it hard to sleep, damn it!
The president of Central Africa issued a currency, the vampires are coming!!! These shameless people, what to do!!!

Also, for those friends in the secondary market who don't want to cut losses, I recommend using biyapay for easy deposits, no card freezing, very smooth!

#加密货币诈骗

🚨 US sanctions Cambodian tycoon, accusing him of cryptocurrency fraud and human trafficking!

The US Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on a Cambodian tycoon and his group for alleged cryptocurrency fraud and human trafficking. A senator named Ly Yong Phat and his LY Group and O-Smash Resort have been accused of serious human rights violations over the past two years.

Reports show that victims were lured to the resort by fake job opportunities or "love scams", and then their phones and passports were confiscated, and they were forced to engage in fraudulent activities including cryptocurrency fraud.

These so-called "pig killing" schemes force victims to establish relationships with others and trick victims into investing in their so-called cryptocurrency or foreign exchange scam projects.

Police investigations show that trafficking victims who tried to seek help were also tortured by multiple beatings and electric shocks.

From October 2022 to March 2024, authorities conducted multiple rescue operations at Ly's resort, rescuing victims from China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and other countries.

In April this year, the BBC reported that more than 250 Indians were rescued by the authorities. These thousands of victims only account for a small part of the victims who were forced to participate in cryptocurrency schemes and "love scams".

In addition, the "Human Trafficking Report" released by the US State Department highlighted human rights violations in the O Smach and Koh Kong regions of Cambodia. OFAC has imposed criminal charges on Senator Ly for three hotels suspected of trafficking.

Meanwhile, Tether froze $28 million worth of USDT in July, which was suspected of being related to cryptocurrency theft and money laundering activities of the Huione Group in Cambodia.

The FBI's IC3 warned that the number of cryptocurrency investment scams led by Southeast Asian criminal organizations is surging.

Conclusion:

This incident reminds us to be vigilant when faced with attractive job opportunities and high-paying promises. And when participating in cryptocurrency investment, we also need to be cautious to prevent being deceived.

In short, investors should conduct comprehensive due diligence before making investment decisions to ensure the safety of funds and personal safety!

#美国制裁 #柬埔寨 #加密货币诈骗 #人口贩卖 #投资者警示

⚠️ Cryptocurrency Fraud Alert: Nigeria Exposes Global Scam, 53 People Charged!

Nigerian law enforcement recently dismantled a massive global cryptocurrency fraud syndicate in Lagos, marking the most significant crackdown on cryptocurrency fraud in West Africa this year! A total of 53 suspects from different countries were arrested, the majority of whom were Chinese nationals, along with individuals from the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Pakistan.

Investigations revealed a vast financial network behind this syndicate, with seized assets valued at $200,000. They illegally transferred over $3 million through a company called "Cloud International Limited." Bank records show that from April to December 2024, they conducted transactions exceeding 2.26 billion Naira through a single bank account, a staggering figure!

Law enforcement discovered an ultra-modern operational base on-site, confiscating a large number of computers, mobile phones, tablets, and over 500 Nigerian SIM cards, as well as several cars used for day-to-day operations. This indicates a large scale of their fraudulent activities, with victims spread across the globe.

Even more outrageous, they impersonated others to commit fraud, such as a Chinese citizen posing as a 28-year-old American woman named "Lina" to deceive people.

Moreover, they colluded with local cryptocurrency sellers to transfer funds through peer-to-peer transactions of USDT (Tether). Two suppliers (Chukwuemeka Okeke and Alhassan Aminu Garbo) admitted to facilitating $2.39 million in USDT transactions for them. The suspects currently face charges including cyber terrorism, impersonation, and identity theft.

This case not only showcases the strength of African law enforcement but also exposes the international scope of criminal activities. For foreign cybercriminal groups aiming to use Africa as a safe haven for their crimes, this operation sends a clear warning.

As cryptocurrency becomes more prevalent, Nigeria's measures may set a precedent for international cooperation in combating digital financial crimes. Everyone is urged to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim!

💬 Do you think the efforts to combat cross-border cryptocurrency fraud are sufficient? How can we better prevent such crimes in the future? Leave your comments and discuss below!

#加密货币诈骗 #尼日利亚行动 #全球打击 #金融安全

If you open a short contract and hold some spot at the same time, you will find that the money is quickly transferred from the spot account to the contract account😂

$BTC $ETH $ANIME $CATI $SWARM $VVV

Inspired by the jokes of A-shares and US stocks

#加密市场回调
#加密货币诈骗

$BTC Mr. Nasdaq, the esteemed, is about to perform a high diving show for us. Please score, judges.
#加密货币诈骗

⚠️ Warning! Cryptocurrency circle X accounts have become a major target for hackers, with various scam tactics emerging

Recently, hackers in the cryptocurrency circle have targeted the X accounts of cryptocurrency companies to promote scam tokens, causing a huge uproar. Over the weekend, there were multiple incidents of X accounts being hijacked, making the crypto community anxious.

On January 11, the official X account of Litecoin was hacked, posting false token information claiming "LTC is launching on Solana," along with relevant links. Fortunately, the Litecoin team quickly deleted the post, confirmed it was a stolen delegated account, apologized to users, and stated that an investigation was underway.

Foresight Ventures' X account also fell victim, as it was attacked by hackers on Saturday and used to promote the fake token MingAI, impersonating an AI crypto assistant. Its partner Xue Min subsequently reported that the X account was hacked, warning users to avoid interaction.

Holoworld AI also encountered a scam, as on January 10, false information circulated about an AVA token airdrop, luring users to inquire about claiming it. However, Holoworld AI later restored the X account with the help of BrainchainLLC and removed phishing links and tweets. The company also claimed to have strengthened security measures to prevent future attacks.

This series of events is not isolated but rather reflects the increasing phishing attacks targeting crypto users on social media platforms. Blockchain security company Scam Sniffer's research indicates that in 2024, losses from phishing attacks are expected to be severe, amounting to about $494 million, threatening over 330,000 crypto wallet addresses, mostly impersonating accounts to deceive users with fraudulent comments and direct messages to malicious websites.

Additionally, on-chain investigator ZachXBT reported that between November and December last year, a hacker breached over 15 X accounts, stealing more than $500,000. However, to combat the escalating threat, Binance recently announced that it has utilized artificial intelligence and machine learning, preventing scam losses exceeding $129 million in 2024, identifying and blacklisting 47,000 malicious addresses, sending out 15,000 alerts daily, and making over 30,000 calls to warn users.

💬 What do you think? Should crypto companies strengthen prevention, or should platforms take on greater responsibility? What insights do you have regarding Binance's security response measures?

#黑客攻击 #加密货币诈骗 #网络安全提醒

👮‍♂️ FBI Helps Cryptocurrency Scam Victims Recover $285 Million in Potential Asset Losses

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has helped potential victims of cryptocurrency scams save $285 million through a program called "Level Up," rescuing thousands from deep-rooted scams!

It is reported that the "Level Up" initiative is an active program of the FBI aimed at identifying and notifying those who have suffered from cryptocurrency investment fraud. By using advanced technology to quickly identify victims, the FBI directly contacts them via phone to intervene swiftly.

As of January of this year, the FBI has prevented over 4,300 people from being scammed through the "Level Up" initiative, including one victim who almost invested $1 million and another who was preparing to sell their house to raise $500,000.

Reports indicate that the scam rings consist of skilled and experienced experts who specifically target individuals aged 30 to 60 who are tech-savvy and eager to invest. They are not only active on social media but also search for targets through text messages, investment groups, social platforms, and even dating websites. Victims often realize they have been scammed only after suffering financial losses.

Additionally, the FBI recorded cryptocurrency investment fraud losses reaching $3.9 billion in 2023, but the actual figure may far exceed this number, as many cases have not been reported. Currently, the FBI receives over 3,200 complaints related to cryptocurrency scams each month.

To prevent fraud, the FBI advises everyone to “pause” before making investment decisions and not to rush into action. Take some time to think carefully and don’t let scammers manipulate your decisions by creating a “false sense of urgency.”

In summary, as scams become increasingly sophisticated, everyone must stay vigilant and not easily trust seemingly attractive investment opportunities.

💬 Have you ever encountered similar scam experiences? Do you have any anti-fraud tips and advice to share? See you in the comments!

#FBI #加密货币诈骗 #防骗提醒

$DOGE $DYDX $DOT What colors are the 3D printed shipments? Are you in the car? #加密货币诈骗

🇨🇳🔁🇹🇭 | China and Thailand join forces to pursue fugitives across borders! The main culprit of the $14 billion cryptocurrency fraud case was finally arrested

A cryptocurrency fraud case involving a sum of up to $14 billion has finally made a major breakthrough! A suspect surnamed Zhang was extradited from Thailand to China, the first time since China and Thailand signed an extradition treaty in 1999.

Although the authorities only revealed the suspect's surname, reports said that the suspect surnamed Zhang was Zhang Yufa, the founder of MBI Group. He was accused of defrauding huge amounts of money through a pyramid scheme that began in 2012, inducing a large number of Chinese citizens to buy their company's unauthorized cryptocurrencies.

The plan attracted more than 10 million participants and promised generous returns, according to reports. At the end of 2020, Chongqing authorities began investigating Zhang Yufa, and Interpol soon issued an arrest warrant for him. He was arrested in July last year after fleeing from Malaysia to Thailand.

🇨🇳 China's Ministry of Public Security moved quickly to form a "Fox Hunt" task force with Thailand to assist in Zhang Yufa's extradition. A Thai court approved the extradition request in May, and although Malaysia also requested that he be deported, China ultimately took the lead.

The Chinese government attaches great importance to this case and hopes that Zhang Yufa's extradition will become a benchmark for future extradition cooperation between China and other countries.

In recent years, China has been stepping up its crackdown on cryptocurrencies. From strict regulation in 2017 to further crackdowns in 2021, many cryptocurrency exchanges and mining operations have been forced to relocate.

The government has explicitly banned financial companies from processing cryptocurrency payments and restricted blockchain fundraising, but cryptocurrency trading has continued to be rampant. The Supreme People's Court and the Procuratorate have made it clear that transactions through cryptocurrency exchanges are money laundering, which is China's first special action against virtual asset transactions.

This case has sounded the alarm for us: in the world of cryptocurrency, risks and opportunities coexist. As investors, we must open our eyes and not be blinded by the promise of high returns.

👇 What do you think about this $14 billion cryptocurrency scam? Leave your thoughts in the comments!

#中泰引渡 #加密货币诈骗 #国际刑警组织 #洗钱打击 #加密货币监管