Erfurt in turmoil: investors lose 114,500 euros to crypto fraudsters!

Erfurt in turmoil: investors lose 114,500 euros to crypto fraudsters!

Reports of cryptocurrency fraud have been increasing recently, and a recent incident from Erfurt shows how easy it is to fall into this trap. A 46-year-old woman and a 56-year-old man lost a total of 114,500 euros to fraudsters who promised them high returns from supposed cryptocurrency investments. The woman transferred 44,500 euros, while the man even put 70,000 euros into the hands of the fraudsters. But the promised payouts of winnings never materialized, which ultimately led to those affected filing a complaint. As Antenne Thüringen reports, the contact mostly took place via messenger services, with the perpetrators posing as financial experts.

The police warn urgently about the numerous dubious online platforms that serve as bait for this fraudulent game. When it comes to cryptocurrency and trading scams, criminals often claim unrealistically high returns to lure unsuspecting investors. In general, such platforms are promoted via social networks and websites that appear trustworthy in order to attract victims under the guise of reputable investment advice. As the police note, the fraudsters often photograph themselves as “traders” in order to gain the trust of their victims. This usually happens without being asked, for example via messenger services or the telephone, where they offer supposedly profitable trading strategies - a real psychological trip!

Tricks of scammers

As polizei-beratung.de describes, it is important to be suspicious of offers that promise exciting profits with minimal investment. Banks and savings banks never contact customers directly to inform them about online trading. Before registering or transferring money, it is essential to find out more about trading platforms, for example by querying the BaFin database. Another warning: Sensitive data should never be revealed, especially login details or ID photos.

The tricks are varied. Fraudsters can even use remote software to steal data without being noticed. In addition, withdrawal requests often require staggering fees or taxes. This often happens in so-called “Tinder trading scams”, in which criminals seek contact via social networks and thus try to make the victims aware of their schemes.

The number of unreported cases is high

The number of unreported cases of such fraud is alarming. According to Caesar Preller, there are not only the classic pump-and-dump schemes, but also phishing methods in which personal data is stolen through fake emails or websites. The number of victims in Germany has grown steadily in recent years, with cryptocurrency-related fraud cases totaling nearly $1.3 billion in damages.

Those affected should definitely document all communications with the fraudulent providers and, if necessary, file a criminal complaint. Civil legal action is also possible, but here too, it is better to be safe than sorry. It is advised never to make further deposits and to be careful when contacting banks or lawyers to avoid falling into a trap again.

Protection is important: The motto for everyone who is active on the Internet is to always be vigilant and obtain information from reliable sources. There are many reputable ways to invest in cryptocurrencies, but you should always think twice before diving into unknown waters.