Dating platforms have become a nerve center for crypto scams, with several million euros stolen in 2021.
On Tinder, Bumble and others, reports for cryptocurrency scams are increasing dangerously. In 2021 alone, their number has doubled, for a total damage estimated at 122 million euros.
Worse than a catfish, a crypto scammer
In a survey published by the New York Times, the American newspaper relates in particular the case of a young woman Tho Vu, defrauded by one of her virtual crushes. After getting acquainted, the conversation quickly drifts on the subject of cryptocurrencies. Obviously knowledgeable on the subject, the man advises her on how to invest in non-fiat currencies, and promises to earn big by investing in bitcoin. Within a few weeks, Tho Vu transferred to him the equivalent of €264,000, or all of his savings.
Relieved of several hundred thousand euros, and abandoned by a suitor who no longer responds, the young woman quoted by the New York Times is just one victim among many: on Grinder, Bumble and the rest of the dating apps on the market, crypto scams are numerous. Criminals generally rely on the general public’s lack of knowledge and the lure of easy money to lure their target. According to data from the Global Anti-Scam Organization, the latter would be primarily young women with a high level of education.
56,000 scams recorded
In total, estimates the US Federal Trade Commission, more than 56,000 crypto scams were reported in 2021. Originating in China, the modus operandi was quickly exported to the United States, and even to Europe. With damage estimated at 122 million euros, double compared to last year, the practice is nevertheless liable to heavy criminal penalties. In France, article 313-2 of the Penal Code provides for a ten-year prison sentence coupled with a fine of up to 1,000,000 euros in the case of an organized gang scam.
