Crypto-related fraud is increasingly emerging from online messaging spaces used by retail investors. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Office of Investor Education and Assistance issued an investor alert on Dec. 22, warning that crypto-focused group chats are frequently used to lure investors into scams.

The SEC warned:

Fraudsters may create a fake investment-related group chat that claims to be led by a well-known financial guru, esteemed professor, successful CEO, or other expert.

The investor alert explains that these chats are often promoted through social media ads or unexpected invitations and are designed to appear authoritative and trustworthy. It details how scammers may impersonate respected figures or fabricate entire personas, sometimes using artificial intelligence tools such as deepfake videos, to promote crypto trading strategies, token offerings, or automated systems that claim to deliver consistent profits.

The guidance emphasizes that victims are frequently directed to professional-looking websites or mobile apps, where fabricated balances, staged screenshots, and false claims of regulatory approval are used to reinforce credibility before withdrawal attempts trigger new payment demands.

Read more: Bitcoin Mining Promises Under Fire as SEC Alleges $48.5M Investor Funds Were Misused

Crypto-related enforcement activity and recurring warning signs are detailed later in the alert. In SEC v. Morocoin, the SEC charged several purported crypto trading platforms and investment clubs that allegedly solicited investors through social media ads and Whatsapp group chats. The SEC’s complaint describes:

The defendants allegedly directed investors in the group chats to open accounts on crypto asset trading platforms falsely boasting licenses from regulators including the SEC.

According to the regulator’s complaint, “the defendants tricked investors into investing in phony Security Token Offerings that the defendants falsely promoted as zero-risk, high-profit opportunities by legitimate businesses.” The SEC noted: “The defendants then allegedly charged investors bogus fees to withdraw their money, falsely telling investors that their accounts were about to be frozen due to SEC investigations.”

The alert also identifies specific payment red flags, including “Sending crypto assets to an unknown wallet or individual.” It reiterates that guaranteed returns do not exist in crypto markets, where higher potential rewards typically involve higher risk. At the same time, lawful crypto activity continues to operate within existing securities frameworks, supported by transparent blockchain records, verifiable transactions, and regulated intermediaries that enable legitimate innovation and investor participation.

• Why is the SEC warning investors about crypto group chats?
  Because scammers are increasingly using private messaging apps to impersonate experts and promote fake crypto investments.
• How do crypto group chat scams typically operate?
  Fraudsters lure investors into chats, direct them to fake platforms, and demand additional payments to access fabricated profits.
• What red flags did the SEC highlight in the investor alert?
  Warning signs include guaranteed returns, fake regulatory claims, and requests to send crypto to unknown wallets.
• Is legitimate crypto activity still allowed under U.S. securities laws?
  Yes, lawful crypto activity continues through regulated intermediaries with transparent and verifiable transactions.

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