Crypto Scams: What They Are and How to Protect Yourself

Crypto has exploded in the last few years, and so have the scams that try to steal your money. From fake tokens promising huge returns to phishing emails that look legit, scammers are getting smarter every day. If you’re new to crypto or have been around for a while, knowing the red flags can save you from a painful loss.

This tag page gathers the latest articles on crypto scams, from honest breakdowns of risky Bitcoin moves to guides on spotting the next $1 coin that’s really a trap. Below you’ll find a quick overview of the most common scams and easy‑to‑use tips you can start applying right now.

In short, a crypto scam is any scheme that tricks you into sending money, personal information, or access to your wallet under false pretenses. The goal is always the same – steal your funds or data – but the tricks vary widely.

Common Types of Crypto Scams

Phishing attacks – Scammers send emails or messages that look like they’re from a trusted exchange or wallet. They include a link to a fake login page that steals your credentials.

Ponzi or pyramid schemes – You’re promised guaranteed returns if you recruit others. The money from new members pays the earlier investors, and it collapses as soon as recruitment stalls.

Fake ICOs and token launches – A brand‑new coin is marketed with slick videos and celebrity endorsements, but the project never delivers a product. Investors lose the money they sent to the developers.

Pump‑and‑dump groups – A coordinated group inflates the price of a low‑cap token on social media, then sells off their holdings, leaving late buyers with a crashing price.

Rug pulls – Developers create a DeFi project, collect funds, and then withdraw all the liquidity, effectively disappearing with investors’ money.

Tips to Stay Safe

First, always double‑check URLs. Scammers use characters that look almost identical to legit sites. If you’re unsure, type the address manually instead of clicking a link.

Second, keep the bulk of your crypto in a hardware wallet or a cold storage solution. Exchanges are convenient, but they’re also prime targets for hacks.

Third, don’t chase hype. If a token is promising 500% returns in a week, it’s a warning sign. Look for a real team, a transparent roadmap, and audited code before you invest.

Fourth, use reputable exchanges and platforms that have clear KYC (know‑your‑customer) procedures. These services are more likely to monitor for suspicious activity.

Fifth, keep your software up to date. A simple outdated app can be an easy entry point for malware that steals your private keys.

If you think you’ve been targeted, report the incident to your local law enforcement, the platform where the scam occurred, and relevant regulatory bodies like the FCA in the UK. Acting quickly can sometimes help recover funds or at least prevent further damage.

Staying safe in crypto is about staying curious and skeptical. The more you learn, the harder it becomes for scammers to trick you. Check out the articles linked on this page for deeper dives into each scam type and real‑world examples that show exactly how they work.