Investment scams

Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible. If you send cryptocurrency to a third party, you cannot reverse it or stop payment. When you send cryptocurrency to a blockchain address, you must be certain of the legitimacy of any involved third-party services and merchants, and only send cryptocurrency to entities you trust. 

Investment scams

Investment scammers ask you to invest money to earn higher returns without financial risk, then request you to bring more people in to do the same. They often need a constant flow of new people investing in order to make money. Ponzi and pyramid schemes are great examples of investment scams.

For the US, if you come across one of these scams, contact the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Federal Trade Commission, or your state's securities regulator to get help. For the UK, contact the Financial Conduct Authority.

Tips for avoiding investment scams:

  • Be skeptical of websites or services promising high returns or unrealistic investment opportunities. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

  • Only send cryptocurrency to trusted third parties. Search for publicly verifiable reviews or articles involving the recipient. 

  • Watch for grammatical errors in communications or on websites. Scammers often make grammar or spelling mistakes.

  • Research the organization thoroughly. Check consumer protection websites and make telephone calls and send emails to verify authenticity.