FBI Reports Crypto Scams Soar in 2023, Losses Exceed $5.6 Billion

In 2023, there was a 45 percent increase in financial losses due to cryptocurrency fraud. Americans lost more than $5.6 billion to different cryptocurrency-related scams, according to a new FBI analysis, underscoring the increasing hazards associated with digital assets.

The number of scams targeting investors is increasing in tandem with the rise in popularity of cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum, Tether, and Bitcoin. Over 69,000 complaints about cryptocurrency fraud were received by the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) in 2023. The reports encompassed a diverse array of schemes, with the most prevalent ones being financial scams. 71% of the whole financial harm was caused by investment fraud alone, which resulted in losses of an astounding $3.96 billion.

Another significant area of concern involved call center fraud and government impersonation scams, which collectively contributed 10% of the reported losses. The FBI’s report showed that individuals over 60 were especially vulnerable, with their collective losses exceeding $1.6 billion.

Types of Crypto Scams

Scammers use various tactics to deceive victims, often building trust through social media or dating apps before introducing fraudulent crypto schemes. Common scams include romance scams, lottery fraud, extortion, and ransomware.

In one scam, called “pig butchering,” con artists pose as potential love interests. Early on, victims might be permitted to withdraw little sums in order to boost their confidence, only to lose bigger amounts later. Sometimes, they are taken advantage of even more by dishonest recovery companies who claim to be able to retrieve lost money.

The FBI has cautioned the public, saying that anyone can become a victim of these schemes. The agency emphasized the need for “extreme caution,” particularly when strangers contact you with online investment options.