FBI issues alert on fake lawyers scamming crypto victims
Florida lawyers should also be mindful that their data is a tempting target and attorneys should be reviewing their data security, training methods, and incident response plans.
The FBI has issued an alert June 24 saying cyber-criminals posing as lawyers are contacting scam victims and offering their services to recover their losses.
The FBI said the emerging criminal tactic is used to further defraud cryptocurrency scam victims.
“Using social media or other messaging platforms, fraudsters posing as lawyers representing fictitious law firms may contact scam victims and offer their services, claiming to have the authorization to investigate fund recovery cases,” according to the alert. “To validate the contact, the ‘lawyers’ claim they are working with, or have received information on, the scam victim’s case from the FBI, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), or other government agency.”
In some instances, scam victims have contacted fraudsters on fake websites, which appear legitimate, hoping to recover their funds, the alert notes.
Florida lawyers should also be mindful that their data is a tempting target and attorneys should be reviewing their data security, training methods, and incident response plans.
To further the recovery scam, the fraudulent lawyers may:
- Request victims to verify their identities by providing personal identifying information or banking information to get their money back;
- Request victims to provide a judgment amount they are seeking from the initial fraudster;
- Request victims to pay a portion of initial fees up front with balance due when funds are recovered;
- Direct victims to make payments for back taxes and other fees to recover their funds; or
- Reference actual financial institutions and money exchanges, to build credibility and further their schemes.
Between February 2023 and February 2024, the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center said cryptocurrency scam victims who were further exploited by fictitious law firms reported losses totaling over $9.9 million.
To protect yourself, the FBI said:
- Be wary of advertisements for cryptocurrency recovery services. Research the advertised company and beware if the company uses vague language, has a minimal online presence, and makes promises regarding an ability to recover funds.
- If an unknown individual contacts you and claims to be able to recover stolen cryptocurrency, do not release any financial or personal identifying information and do not send money.
- Law enforcement does not charge victims a fee for investigating crimes. If someone claims an affiliation with the FBI, contact your local FBI field office to confirm.
