The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has seized $868,000 in cryptocurrency from perpetrators of a sophisticated romance scam that targeted users through dating apps and fake investment platforms. This latest enforcement action, announced on May 23, 2025, highlights the growing intersection of romance scams and crypto fraud, demonstrating authorities’ increasing capability to track and recover digital assets from cybercriminals.
Key Takeaways from the DOJ Crypto Seizure
- $868,000 in various cryptocurrencies recovered
- Multiple victims targeted through dating applications
- Scammers used fake investment platforms promising unrealistic returns
- Federal authorities successfully traced and seized digital assets
This case bears similarities to another recent DOJ operation that recovered $2.5M from FOMO investment scams, indicating a broader crackdown on crypto-related fraud schemes.
How the Romance Crypto Scam Operated
The scammers employed a sophisticated approach that combined social engineering with fake investment platforms. Victims were initially contacted through popular dating apps, where fraudsters built trust over time before introducing investment opportunities promising exceptional returns through cryptocurrency trading.
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Red Flags to Watch For in Crypto Dating Scams
- Unsolicited investment advice from dating app matches
- Promises of guaranteed high returns
- Pressure to move investments to unfamiliar platforms
- Requests to convert fiat currency to cryptocurrency
FAQ: Protecting Yourself from Crypto Romance Scams
How can I verify if a crypto investment platform is legitimate?
Always research the platform through official regulatory databases and verify licenses. Legitimate platforms will have clear registration information and regulatory compliance details.
What should I do if I’ve been victimized by a crypto romance scam?
Report the incident immediately to:
- Local law enforcement
- The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- Your bank or crypto exchange if transfers were made
Regulatory Response and Future Prevention
The DOJ’s successful recovery of these funds demonstrates the increasing effectiveness of law enforcement in tracking and seizing digital assets. This case serves as both a warning to potential scammers and a reminder for crypto investors to remain vigilant.