Introduction
As digital assets gain popularity, related online scams have proliferated, particularly in peer-to-peer (C2C) trading. Understanding common fraud tactics and preventive measures empowers users to safeguard their assets effectively. Below, we outline prevalent C2C scams and counterstrategies.
1. Fake Payment Receipts
Scammers send forged bank transfer confirmations, claiming funds are held in escrow until you release coins. These fraudsters skillfully fabricate screenshots, documents, or urgent narratives to pressure victims.
Prevention Tips:
- Always verify payment in your account before releasing coins.
- Ignore high-pressure tactics. Cross-check all transaction details independently.
2. Impersonation Scams
Fraudsters pose as customer support, celebrities (e.g., Elon Musk), or government officials to steal assets. FTC reports $133 million in losses from such scams since 2021.
Prevention Tips:
- Never share OTPs, private keys, or conduct asset-related discussions via third-party apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Telegram).
- Contact support directly through the official app if suspicious.
3. Exploiting Banking Loopholes
Scammers manipulate bank policies, falsely claiming accounts were hacked to reverse transactions. They may also assert trades are "illegal" to deter legal action.
Prevention Tips:
- Never cancel orders without receiving funds/assets.
- Report disputes immediately with evidence (e.g., chat logs).
4. Malicious Refunds
Fraudsters abuse refund-friendly platforms (e.g., PayPal) to cancel payments post-trade.
Prevention Tips:
- Avoid PayPal; use irreversible payment methods.
- Trade only with verified merchants for dispute resolution.
5. Offline Trading Scams
Scammers lure victims with cash trades, then use counterfeit money or vanish post-payment.
Prevention Tips:
- Meet in secure, public locations.
- Bring a trusted companion and verify cash authenticity.
How to Avoid C2C Scams?
1. Verify Transaction Details
- Confirm asset/fiat receipt before finalizing trades.
- Reject unverified "proof" (easily faked).
2. Authenticate Counterparties
- Match payment account details with platform profiles.
- Prioritize KYC-verified merchants.
👉 Explore trusted C2C merchants
3. Report Suspicious Activity
- Escalate disputes via official support channels.
4. Communicate Only On-Platform
- External chats (e.g., WeChat) lack dispute protection.
5. Recognize Pressure Tactics
- Scammers induce panic ("Act now or lose funds!").
- Document all interactions as evidence.
6. Stick to Platform Escrow
- Avoid external trades; use built-in escrow protection.
FAQ Section
Q1: What if I’ve already released coins but received no payment?
A: Freeze the transaction and contact support immediately with evidence (e.g., payment records).
Q2: How do I verify a seller’s legitimacy?
A: Check their verification badges, trade history, and user reviews on the platform.
Q3: Can I recover assets sent to a scammer?
A: Blockchain transactions are irreversible, but reporting helps platform-wide fraud prevention.
👉 Learn more about secure trading practices
Key Reminders
- Never share sensitive data (private keys, 2FA codes).
- Use platform escrow; avoid offline deals.
- Stay vigilant—double-check every transaction.