Telegram has become a key tool in the crypto world. Projects, communities, traders, and developers use it for its ease of use and privacy. But like any good channel, it also attracts malicious actors. In recent months, bots have proliferated on Telegram that promise automatic payments in crypto, usually for simple tasks like joining groups, inviting friends, watching ads, or performing daily 'missions'. It sounds tempting, but it is almost always a scam.
How these bots work
These bots often present themselves as Web3 projects or as automatic 'airdrops'. Some common promises:
"Earn $XRP /$BTC /$USDC diary just for using the bot."
"Instant withdrawal to your wallet after completing tasks."
"Recommend friends and earn 10% of their income."
They may seem harmless, but they actually apply very well-designed psychological scam patterns.
🎭 Main types of scams they use
1. Disguised pyramid scheme
They give you small rewards at the beginning (like 0.1 XRP or 1 USDT), but later they force you to invite new users to be able to withdraw. If you don't, your funds remain frozen. This model only sustains itself while new users join, like any Ponzi scheme.
2. Withdrawal Scam
When you try to withdraw your accumulated funds, the bot demands:
Pay a supposed 'network fee'.
Send a small amount to a wallet for 'KYC verification'. After that payment, they disappear or block you.
3. Direct theft of funds
Some bots ask you to connect your wallet or sign transactions from apps like WalletConnect. If you don't know what you're signing, you could be granting total access to your funds.
4. Phishing and data theft
Other bots request personal information such as email address, phone number, seed phrase, or private keys, under the pretext of verifying your identity or wallet.
🧠 How to detect if it's a scam?
🔍 Before using a bot that promises crypto, ask yourself:
Who is behind the bot? Do they have a real website or project? Is there an official presence on social media?
Are the rewards too good to be true?
Do they ask you for money to be able to withdraw your 'earnings'?
Do they request access to your wallet or private keys?
Are there many complaints from users in forums or on X (Twitter)?
A very clear sign: if there is no verifiable proof of legitimate withdrawals, it is very likely a scam.
🛡 Final tips to avoid falling victim
Never share your seed phrase.
Beware of bots that ask you for funds to withdraw.
Use wallets with protection against malicious signatures (like Rabby or Fire).
Check if the bot or project is listed on platforms like ScamSniffer or Web3 is Going Just Great.
Look for real reviews on X and Binance Square before using any bot.
📣 Have you been a victim of one of these bots?
Your experience can help others. Share your case in the comments and let's expose these scammers together. The more we know, the less power they will have.