The California Division of Monetary Safety and Innovation (DFPI) says it has shut down 26 cryptocurrency rip-off web sites and recognized $4.6 million in client losses, officers introduced Monday.
In a brand new announcement, the DFPI says the crackdown is a part of a broader initiative to fight rising crypto-related fraud within the state, using the division’s “Crypto Rip-off Tracker” to determine fraudulent schemes primarily based on client complaints.
Says DFPI Commissioner KC Mohseni,
“As crypto scams evolve, DFPI’s Crypto Rip-off Tracker helps empower customers to remain vigilant.
It’s a important a part of our enforcement technique and function as a monetary regulator, educator and enforcement company. We urge all Californians to train warning with unknown platforms, confirm web site domains to keep away from fraudulent imitations, and keep cautious of crypto restoration rip-off websites. Staying knowledgeable and reporting scams to the DFPI strengthens the Crypto Rip-off Tracker, making it an much more efficient instrument in defending customers.”
Officers reportedly processed over 2,600 complaints, uncovering scams starting from faux Bitcoin (BTC) mining operations to misleading crypto gaming platforms and fraudulent job presents. The investigation additionally recognized seven new rip-off sorts, highlighting hackers’ evolving ways.
Says Legal professional Normal Rob Bonta,
“As scammers develop more and more subtle and calculated, so should our enforcement.
Scammers can use deception and emotional manipulation to make the most of individuals in search of connections. Whereas there may be a lot work to be finished, I need to take a second to rejoice the arduous work of my staff, who took motion to guard customers by shutting down these faux cryptocurrency web sites final 12 months. I might additionally wish to thank our state companions on the Division of Monetary Safety and Innovation for his or her collaboration. I urge Californians to be vigilant and defend their funds: Don’t ship cash to anybody you will have by no means met in particular person.”
Investigators additionally famous the prevalence of “pig-butchering” scams, the place fraudsters manipulate victims into investing in non-existent cryptocurrency initiatives. Such schemes have contributed considerably to the $9.9 billion in world crypto rip-off losses reported in 2024.
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