FBI Alert: Scammers Pose as Lawyers to Target Past Crypto Fraud Victims with Fraudulent Recovery Schemes

Key Points

1. The FBI received over 149,000 crypto fraud complaints in 2024, totaling $9.3 billion in losses, a 66% increase from 2023.

2. Americans aged 60 and older lost $2.83 billion, accounting for nearly 30% of total crypto fraud damages.

3. Scammers use sophisticated tactics, including impersonating lawyers and claiming partnerships with government entities, to exploit victims.

4. Investment fraud, particularly 'pig butchering' schemes, has surged, with individual losses ranging from $2-4 million.

5. The FBI recommends a 'zero trust' model, advising victims to assume all unsolicited contact is a potential attack.