The law enforcement agency spoke about a "new criminal scheme": fraudsters present themselves as authorized lawyers of government agencies, including the FBI, and offer assistance in recovering previously lost, confiscated digital assets. The target of the criminals were victims of crypto fraudsters seeking to recover their funds.
"According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, from February 2023 to February 2024, victims of cryptocurrency fraud who sought help from fictitious law firms reported losses totaling more than $9.9 million," the FBI said in an announcement.
Most often, scammers found their victims on social networks, Internet chat rooms and by luring them to fake websites where the victims tried to get legal assistance. The FBI recommended to beware of advertising cryptocurrency refund services, especially where vague wording is used, but promises are made to return the funds. Especially in cases where pseudo-lawyers require clients to make an advance payment, as well as provide sensitive financial information and personal data.
Earlier, the FBI warned about scammers who offer a "dream job at home" and convince potential employees to transfer cryptocurrency.