Crypto scams: 5,000 entities banned in France, but scammers are still innovating

The crypto universe, fascinating for some, is a real minefield where each step can prove fatal. In France, financial scams are thriving, attracting a growing number of victims thanks to ever more sophisticated techniques. Among these traps, scams linked to cryptocurrencies are expensive, and the authorities are redoubling their efforts to stop the bleeding.

Crypto scams, a scourge with frightening figures

In 2024, crypto scams have reached new heights in Francecausing annual losses estimated at half a billion euros. Among these frauds, those linked to crypto investments stand out for their worrying inventiveness:

• 3.2% French victims of scams, compared to 1.2% in 2021;
• An average of €19,000 lost for fictitious loans;
• Until €69,000 gone in fraudulent savings accounts.

Scammers, in chameleon mode, usurp the identities of authorities or celebrities, using AI to make their stories credible. A glaring example is the “OmegaPro” fraud, where investigators recovered 268 million euros of criminal assets.

“ Promises of extravagant returns should always set off alarm bells “, reminds the AMFwhich multiplies warnings to alert the public.

Regulators and battles against the crypto illusion

Facing this avalanche of scamsFrench regulators are responding with determination. Since 2022, 5,000 unauthorized entities were blacklisted, and 350 fraudulent sites were blocked. A national information campaign has also emerged to educate investors about the risks.

The strategies of scammers, such as calls from false advisors or so-called “outright” frauds – where the original victims are contacted again under the pretext of recovering funds – demonstrate criminal ingenuity.

The regulators invite check official records and to never give in to promises of easy wealth. Because, as they often say: “ When it's too good to be true, it's probably not true. »

In short, crypto enthusiasts are particularly vulnerable to these digital mirages: 76% of assets promoted by crypto influencers turn out to be scams. Vigilance and caution remain the best defenses against this epidemic of scams.