A new wave of crypto scams is sweeping through Hawaii — and this time, it’s not about tech, but emotions. Scammers are targeting lonely and elderly victims, building fake friendships and relationships to lure them into crypto investment traps. The Kauai Police Department has issued a strong warning, calling these scammers “silent predators” who strike through phone screens.

🎭 Fake Friends, Fake Investments

On April 11, the Kauai Police Department (KPD) released an official alert, warning that seniors and socially isolated individuals are being targeted by fraudsters posing as new friends or romantic interests. Everything seems genuine — until they recommend a “great investment” that turns out to be a carefully laid trap.

From the KPD statement:

“Scammers build trust, manipulate emotions, and eventually convince victims to transfer funds — which then vanish instantly.”

This scam tactic is known as “pig butchering” — a term describing a process where trust is built over time only to end in financial slaughter.

🌐 FBI Warns of Multi-Million Dollar Losses

The FBI has issued repeated alerts as these schemes grow in size and sophistication. One striking case: a woman in Maryland lost over $3 million after a scammer on a messaging app convinced her to invest in a fake crypto platform. The scam mimicked real returns, but the money was gone for good.

According to the FBI, many of these scams originate from Southeast Asia, where organized criminal networks target victims via social media and dating apps. Once contact is made, scammers offer “help” investing, redirect victims to fake websites, and pressure them to deposit crypto funds.

⚠️ Warning Signs of a Scam

Authorities are urging the public to watch for key red flags:

🔹 Unsolicited messages from strangers offering friendship or romance

🔹 Too good to be true investment promises

🔹 Pressure to act fast or keep things secret

🔹 Requests to use unknown crypto apps or transfer funds

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself (and Loved Ones)

The police are calling on the community to stay vigilant and help protect older relatives, who are more vulnerable to emotional manipulation. Their advice:

🔹 Never send money to someone you’ve only met online

🔹 Don’t install unknown apps recommended by strangers

🔹 Always talk to someone you trust before making financial decisions

🔹 Verify investment opportunities through licensed professionals

💬 Crypto Isn't the Enemy – But It’s Being Abused

While these scams use cryptocurrency, experts emphasize that digital currencies themselves are legitimate and safe when used wisely. The problem isn’t the coins — it’s the criminals who exploit them.

#Cryptoscam , #CryptoScamAlert , #CryptoNewss , #CryptoSecurity , #StaySafe


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