WASHINGTON: The FBI is actively working to protect Americans from cryptocurrency investment scams.
These scams have caused financial and emotional distress for thousands across the country.
To combat this, the FBI launched Operation Level Up, a proactive fraud prevention initiative.
This program identifies and warns victims before they lose more money.
FBI agents use advanced techniques to detect and intervene in ongoing scams.
Victim Notifications
Since Operation Level Up began, the FBI has notified over 4,300 victims across all 50 states.
Shockingly, 76% of these victims were unaware they were being scammed.
The intervention efforts have prevented more than $285 million in losses.
Victims have expressed gratitude for being warned in time.
Some were on the verge of liquidating retirement accounts or selling their homes.
Criminal Tactics
Cryptocurrency scams typically involve unsolicited online contact from fraudsters.
Scammers build trust over time before pressuring victims into fake investments.
These schemes create urgency, convincing victims to send large sums of money.
Most perpetrators operate from overseas but target individuals in the U.S.
The FBI warns that these scams are rapidly evolving with new deceptive tactics.
Law Enforcement Efforts
FBI and U.S. Secret Service agents personally contact identified victims.
They provide information on scam tactics and steps to avoid further losses.
Victims receive guidance on filing official reports with federal authorities.
Support services, including mental health resources, are also offered.
Some victims received life-saving interventions after severe financial distress.
Global Cooperation
The FBI collaborates with international agencies through its global legal attaché offices.
They share intelligence about foreign victims with law enforcement abroad.
Fraudulent apps, websites, and social media accounts are reported to tech companies.
These efforts aim to dismantle large-scale crypto scam operations.
Authorities are working to shut down fraudulent platforms used by scammers.
Safety Tips
Never share personal or financial details with someone you met online.
Do not invest money based on advice from unknown online contacts.
Avoid downloading unfamiliar applications or clicking unverified links.
Do not pay extra fees or taxes to withdraw invested funds.
Be cautious of services claiming they can recover lost cryptocurrency.
FBI Warnings
Scammers may try to convince victims to ignore FBI warnings.
Stay alert if someone instructs you to avoid law enforcement communication.
The FBI does not request money, private messaging, or bank details.
Agents will provide verification methods to confirm their identity.
When in doubt, contact your nearest FBI field office for clarification.
Reporting Fraud
If you suspect you are a victim, stop sending money immediately.
File a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
You can also call 1-800-CALL-FBI for further assistance.
The FBI urges public awareness to prevent more financial losses.
By staying informed, you can help stop these deceptive schemes.
