Crypto Scams

Next Steps

Evaluating a Potential Scam

1. Research - Research the whitepaper, project team, and future goals.
2. Check Blacklists - Check blacklists such as California’s Scam Tracker, and Badbitcoin. Research the project team to determine if they’ve been associated with any other known scams.
3. Identify Red Flags - Use the red flag checklist to identify potential red flags.
4. Use Caution - Understand that once you send crypto you’ll likely never be able to get it back. The blockchain doesn’t allow for transactions to be changed, don’t put in more than you’re willing to lose.

What to do if You’ve Fallen Victim

1. Stop interacting with the scammer/project.

2. Report the crime to your local police department.

3. Leverage the following reporting options:

   • FTC fraud report
   • Commodity Futures Trading Commission complaints and tips
   • Securities and Exchange Commission fraud reporting
   • FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center complaint

4. Change your passwords for any affected platforms.

5. If your wallet was compromised, move all funds to a new address that you control.

6. Don’t engage with crypto recovery services.