Crypto Crime: How Cyber ​​Crooks Threaten Our Money and Lives!

Crypto Crime: How Cyber ​​Crooks Threaten Our Money and Lives!

The dangers of crypto crime are increasing alarmingly worldwide. According to recent reports, around 83% of crypto investors report fraud or hacker attacks. The most common scam is social media fakes, which occur in 34% of cases, followed by stock market hacks (21%) and phishing attacks (19%). The perpetrators often use psychological manipulation and technical sophistication to obtain private keys or access data. At the same time, not only are online fraudsters active, but physical attacks are also becoming more and more common. Bond guide reports that crypto fraud losses in the US rose to $9.3 billion in 2024, compared to $5.6 billion the previous year. An estimated USD 40.9 billion flowed into the coffers of crypto criminals worldwide, although the unreported figure could increase the amount to over USD 51 billion.

As fraud in the digital spheres increases, suspected kidnappings of those with crypto assets are also increasing dramatically. In France, five kidnapping cases were reported in 2025 alone, including the case of David Balland, the co-founder of the crypto company Ledger, who was kidnapped in Paris while the perpetrators demanded EUR 10 million in Bitcoin. Such incidents show that crypto assets are being targeted not only in virtual space but also in physical space.

Fraud patterns and their effects

In addition to classic forms of fraud, psychologically sophisticated methods are increasingly being used to deceive crypto investors. Perpetrators often operate from regions with weak government surveillance, and Interpol Secretary General Jürgen Stock highlights that there are systematic attacks orchestrated from fraud hubs. A frightening method that is being used more and more often is so-called “pig butchering”. daily news describes how cyberslaves in countries like Cambodia are sold for little money in order to invest others in fake crypto exchanges.

The number of new victims in Germany is increasing every day. One such case is that of a Munich businessman who was cheated on a dating platform and lost several thousand euros. However, cybercrime investigations are difficult because they often take place abroad. The Bavarian Ministry of Justice has therefore reached an agreement with Interpol for international cooperation.

Protective measures and adjusted framework conditions

International authorities are working to step up the fight against crypto fraud. For example, US authorities have placed a Cambodian businessman linked to “pig butchering” on the sanctions list. There is a cyber sanctions regime at EU level, but the criteria for listing are extremely strict.

The topics of crypto crime and fraud remain highly topical and require an effective legal and security framework to best protect investors and their assets. Given the growing threats, it is essential that both users and authorities remain vigilant.