BPD has taken reports recently involving scams involving cryptocurrency investing. Victims report receiving unsolicited messages through WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or other internet based messaging apps. The scammer offers to assist the victim with cryptocurrency investing. Victims are given links to websites that allow for electronic transfers and are instructed to transfer funds to invest. The scam continues with more requests for money transfers for investing or to cover fees and or taxes. Scammers will also utilize phony apps to facilitate the thefts. In the small number of cases BPD has seen in the last couple of weeks, the amount stolen has been significant at about $200,000. Most often, this money is not recoverable. Be wary of messages and suspicious links on social media:

• Never entertain unsolicited communications
• Never give anyone your login credentials
• Never accept offers to assist with withdrawals/deposits
• Never entertain “free” giveaways, airdrops or trading platforms