FBI warns of fake lawyers scamming cryptocurrency victims – The Florida Bar

FBI warns of fake lawyers defrauding cryptocurrency victims

Florida attorneys should also be aware that their data is a tempting target, so they should review their data security, training practices and emergency response plans.

The FBI issued an alert on June 24 saying that cybercriminals posing as lawyers are contacting fraud victims and offering their services to recover their losses.

The FBI said the new criminal tactic is being used to further defraud cryptocurrency scam victims.

“Through social media or other messaging platforms, scammers posing as attorneys from fictitious law firms may contact scam victims and offer their services, claiming they have the authority to investigate money recovery cases,” the alert states. “To confirm the contact, the ‘attorneys’ claim they are working on the scam victim’s case or have received information about it from the FBI, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), or another government agency.”

In some cases, fraud victims have contacted scammers on fake, seemingly legitimate websites in the hope of getting their money back, the warning says.

Florida attorneys should also be aware that their data is a tempting target, so they should review their data security, training practices and emergency response plans.

To further the money collection scam, the fraudulent lawyers may:

• Ask victims to confirm their identity by providing personal information or banking details in order to recover their money.

• Ask victims to disclose the amount they are demanding from the original scammer;

• Ask victims to pay part of the initial fees up front, with the remaining balance due when the funds are recovered.

• Require victims to pay back taxes and other fees to get their money back, or

• Reference real financial institutions and money exchange offices to build credibility and advance their schemes.

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, between February 2023 and February 2024, victims of cryptocurrency scams who were further exploited by fictitious law firms reported losses totaling over $9.9 million.

For your protection, the FBI said:

• Be wary of advertisements for cryptocurrency recovery services. Research the company being advertised and be wary if the company uses vague language, has minimal online presence, and makes promises regarding the ability to recover funds.

• If you are contacted by an unknown person claiming to be able to recover stolen cryptocurrencies, do not disclose any financial or personal information or send any money.

• Law enforcement does not charge victims for solving crimes. If someone claims to be associated with the FBI, contact your local FBI field office to confirm.