scam type guide
crypto & investment scams.
guaranteed returns. fake platforms. rug pulls.
Crypto and investment scams lure victims with promises of guaranteed high returns, exclusive trading platforms, or early access to new tokens. Scammers use social media, dating apps, and messaging platforms to recruit victims into fraudulent schemes.
$4.6B.
lost to investment scams in 2024
$86,000.
average crypto scam loss
183%.
increase since 2021
94.5%.
suss. detection rate
red flags to watch for.
if you see any of these, suss it out before responding.
guaranteed returns
No legitimate investment can guarantee profits. If they promise 10%+ daily returns, it's a scam.
exclusive platform
Directs you to an unknown trading platform or app not available on major app stores.
withdrawal blocked
You can deposit but can't withdraw — they claim you need to pay taxes, fees, or deposit more.
recruited via social media
The opportunity came through DMs, a dating app match, or a Telegram group.
pressure to act fast
Limited time offer, price going up, only a few spots left — classic urgency tactics.
no verifiable company
The company has no registration, no office address, and no regulatory license.
real examples suss. catches.
paste messages like these into suss. for instant analysis.
“I've been making $5,000/day on this new trading platform. My mentor taught me everything. Want me to show you how? You just need to start with $500.”
HIGH RISK — crypto investment scam
“Your account has been frozen due to regulatory compliance. Please deposit an additional $2,000 to verify your identity and unlock your funds.”
HIGH RISK — withdrawal freeze extortion
real victim stories.
anonymized cases from actual crypto & investment scams reports.
A LinkedIn connection introduced a man to a 'proprietary trading algorithm.' He deposited $15K and saw fake profits. When he tried to withdraw, they demanded a $5K 'tax fee.'
If you can't withdraw, the platform is the scam.
A college student was promised easy returns from a crypto 'airdrop.' She connected her wallet to a phishing site that drained her holdings.
Never connect your wallet to unverified sites.
check it now.
paste a suspicious message below for instant AI analysis.
how to protect yourself.
follow these tips and use suss. to verify anything suspicious.
No legitimate investment guarantees returns. Period.
Never invest through platforms recommended by online strangers.
Verify the company's registration with SEC, FINRA, or your country's regulator.
If you can't withdraw your money, it's almost certainly a scam.
Be skeptical of 'mentors' who found you through social media.
Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the SEC.
think you've seen a crypto & investment scam?.
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