Ukraine police raided a call center suspected of running a crypto scam targeting residents of the European Union. Per reports by the investigation team, the cybercriminals allegedly disguised themselves as bank officials and acquired confidential details of people. Scams are not new to the cryptocurrency market; the Ukrainian government warned citizens not to share personal information with strangers.
Ukraine’s call centers duping people into crypto trading
The Security Service of Ukraine and the police department got hold of criminals using inappropriate techniques to loot millions from the EU nations. According to the investigators, the criminals used software to make their phone numbers appear official to eliminate the risk of identity revelation. These fraudsters acted as if they hailed from some reputable bank and recommended cryptocurrency and gold investment schemes.
Besides running call center networks, scammers created fake websites and trading platforms to lure investors through attractive schemes. In a press release, the Ukraine investigators revealed that call centers targeted crypto investors who lost in any investment scheme to return their stolen amount through a commission.
While raiding the call centers, mobile phones, equipment, and recording confirmed that the authorities seized forgery. The fraudsters may face 12 years imprisonment on charges of duping people through fake software and organization on proof of the crime.
How to spot cryptocurrency scams?
The cryptocurrency market is growing crazily, and so is the rate of scams. Cybercriminals use crypto as the best platform to loot millions by creating fake websites or running fraud organizations. Be diligent in safeguarding our hard-earned money; we jotted down some helpful tactics to spot a scam.
- Closely watch the URLs
The website URLs signal the authenticity of a site; in case you fail to spot a lock icon next to the address bar, it’s fake. Next, keep a close watch on whether the site uses HTTP or HTTPS; the former is insecure, therefore, might prove harmful for you.
- Research on creators
Before investing a massive amount in a crypto platform, conduct thorough research into the creator or founder of the exchange platform. Scammers mostly disguise their real identities; another sign is that they won’t be available on social media channels.
- Scrutinize whitepaper
Though central forces do not regulate cryptocurrency, every legitimate token or currency releases a whitepaper. A whitepaper presents facts, fundamentals and technologies related to the currency in detail. If your chosen site doesn’t carry proper documentation, try avoiding it.
Little vigilance can save your hard-earned money from falling prey to a fake crypto scheme. With rising rates of scams, it’s high time the government should initiate steps to impose regulatory norms on unauthorized crypto organizations.
