US federal authorities have warned of a cryptocurrency scam in which fraudsters use fake dating websites and videos of women to gain victims’ trust before stealing funds from their digital wallets. Six people have been accused of operating the alleged scheme from Madagascar, targeting men seeking romantic relationships.
According to News4 Washington, US Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the accused allegedly used photographs and recorded videos of women to establish personal connections with potential victims. The same video clips were reportedly reused to approach multiple targets, making interactions appear genuine and increasing victims’ trust in the scammers.
Once contact was established, victims were allegedly directed to websites posing as legitimate non-fungible token (NFT) marketplaces or investment platforms. They were then persuaded to connect their cryptocurrency wallets, allowing the scammers to access and drain their holdings, Pirro said.
The FBI identified approximately 74 cryptocurrency wallets belonging to victims in Maryland, Oregon, Minnesota and Nevada. Images seized by federal investigators reportedly showed instructions guiding scammers on how to communicate with targets and build relationships.
The US Secret Service has urged people to exercise caution when approached by strangers online. Agency representative Tara McCleese warned that scammers often exploit initial responses to establish contact and manipulate their targets.
Authorities said investigators have recovered more than $1 billion in cryptocurrency through related enforcement efforts. However, returning the money to victims remains a complex legal process.
Assistant US Attorney Rick Blaylock said much of the recovery effort remains tied up in litigation. Victims may receive funds only after legal proceedings conclude and the government obtains a final order determining the distribution of recovered assets.
The fate of the six accused remains uncertain. Officials have indicated that bringing them to the US could be difficult because the United States does not have an extradition treaty with Madagascar.
