Common types of cryptocurrency fraud

The cryptocurrency industry is growing quickly, and while it offers new opportunities, it has also attracted scammers looking to take advantage of investors. Being aware of the most common fraud types will help you recognize suspicious activity and protect your funds.

Below is an overview of scams and fraud schemes that are frequently reported within the crypto space.

Investment scams
These scams often promise guaranteed or unusually high returns in a short period of time. Fraudsters may claim to have inside knowledge, exclusive trading software, or access to a special investment group. They might ask you to send funds or cryptocurrency to participate. Remember, no legitimate investment is risk-free, and Change does not work with third parties that offer investment management or guaranteed profits.

Phishing attempts
Phishing is one of the most common online threats, where scammers send emails, text messages, or create fake websites that look like official Change pages. Their goal is to trick you into revealing your login details, recovery codes, or personal information by pretending to be a trusted source. These fake websites often copy our design and logo to make you believe you are using the real Change platform. Always check that the website address ends with changeinvest.com and that any message you receive comes from an official email address using the same domain. If a link looks suspicious, hover over it to preview the full address before clicking, and never download attachments from unknown sources. Be cautious of messages claiming you need to “secure” or “verify” your account, as these may install malware or lead to fraudulent pages.

Impersonation and helpdesk scams
Fraudsters may pretend to be representatives of Change, your bank, or another financial institution. They might ask you to share your screen, give them remote access to your device, or reveal verification codes. Change will never ask for your password, PIN, or 2FA code. If someone claims to be from Change and requests this information, stop the conversation immediately and contact our official support team.

Giveaway and celebrity scams
These scams often appear on social media and promise free cryptocurrency or other rewards. Fraudsters may impersonate well-known people or brands and ask you to send crypto first in order to receive a larger amount in return. Change never conducts giveaways that require you to send cryptocurrency. Genuine promotions will always be announced through our verified channels.

Fake exchanges and platforms
Some websites or mobile apps are designed to look like legitimate cryptocurrency exchanges. They may promise low fees or bonus rewards but are created solely to steal deposits. Before creating an account or sending funds, always check that the platform is licensed and operates under clear regulatory supervision. Change is fully licensed in the European Economic Area and follows all relevant EU financial standards.

What to do if you think you are a victim
If you believe you may have been targeted or have sent cryptocurrency to a fraudulent address, contact us immediately at support@changeinvest.com. Include all details you have, such as the sender’s information, the wallet address, and the time of the transaction. We will guide you through the next steps and help you secure your account as quickly as possible. You should also file a police report to assist in any further investigation.