How to spot common crypto scams

Common crypto scams: signal groups, fake exchanges, fake support staff, fake airdrops and fixed-return schemes — warning signs and how to stay safe.

Crypto is fertile ground for scammers because transactions can't be reversed. Rule number one: high, guaranteed, risk-free returns = scam.

1. "Signal groups" and "10x your account" offers

You get invited to a Telegram or WhatsApp group where an "expert" posts winning trades again and again. At first you win small amounts, then you're talked into depositing much more on an unknown exchange or app — and you can't withdraw. This is often called a "pig butchering" scam.

2. Fake exchanges, apps and websites

A site that looks exactly like a real exchange, with a domain name one letter off. Only open exchanges by typing the address yourself or through apps from official app stores.

3. Fake support staff

You ask a question in a community group and someone immediately messages you privately, claiming to be "exchange support" and asking for your password, 2FA code or wallet recovery phrase. Real staff never message you first and never ask for these things. CoinXview will never message you privately either.

4. Fake airdrops and giveaways

"Connect your wallet to claim free tokens", "send 1 ETH, get 2 ETH back". Connecting your wallet and signing unknown transactions can give scammers permission to drain it.

5. Pyramid schemes and fixed returns

Promises of fixed daily or monthly returns plus bonuses for recruiting others. New investors' money pays earlier ones, and when new people stop joining, it collapses.

6. Junk coins, pump & dumps and rug pulls

New coins with thin liquidity get pumped hard, then the team dumps them. Check the risk score and the number of exchanges listing a coin on its coin page before buying an unfamiliar coin.

Protect yourself

• Turn on 2FA and use a different password for each exchange.
• Don't install apps or click links sent by strangers.
• Don't send money outside the exchange, and never let anyone "hold" or "trade" your funds for you.
• If you've been scammed: save all evidence and report it right away to the exchange and to your local police.