Cryptocurrency Scam Busted: Brooklyn DA Takes Down Operation Defrauding Victims of Millions
The Brooklyn District Attorney’s office has announced a major breakthrough in the fight against cryptocurrency scams, disrupting an operation that defrauded people across the country out of millions of dollars.
The Scam Unfolds
Scammers targeted strangers through random text messages, dating websites, and other online chat groups, convincing them to invest in cryptocurrency through fake websites and apps. The victims would then end up losing their entire investment. One victim, who lost $118,000 to a scammer she met on a dating app, recounted her experience: “He was trying to tell me about crypto because I told him I was in the process of a divorce … I felt like an idiot. Kind of like, right now, I am in a downfall. I just feel like if I could tell other females out there, other victims – don’t fall for it. Listen to your gut.”
Be cautious of unsolicited investment advice online
Tracing the Scam
Investigators traced one victim’s investment to a foreign cryptocurrency exchange account, which was cashed out by an individual outside of US jurisdiction. The Brooklyn DA’s office was able to seize over a dozen website domains and three virtual servers associated with the scam operation.
A New Unit to Combat Cryptocurrency Scams
District Attorney Eric Gonzalez established a Virtual Currency Unit in fall 2023 after hearing from numerous Brooklyn residents who fell victim to cryptocurrency scams. The unit’s efforts have led to this major breakthrough, and the DA’s office is urging people to be vigilant and take precautions to avoid falling prey to such scams.
Don’t respond to unsolicited investment advice, and never pay more to recover lost investments
The Brooklyn DA’s office is working tirelessly to combat cryptocurrency scams and protect the community from these fraudulent activities. As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions to avoid falling victim to these scams.
Stay safe in the world of cryptocurrency
