Coinbase Sounds The Alarm: Gen Z Targeted By Crypto Scams

As a seasoned researcher and a frequent user of social media platforms, I can attest to the alarming trend Coinbase has highlighted – Gen Z becoming more susceptible to online fraudsters, especially in the realm of cryptocurrencies. Having been a victim of a phishing scam myself, I understand the allure of seemingly attractive investment opportunities and the emotional manipulation that often accompanies these traps.


Coinbase has issued a warning about a troubling development: Young adults, particularly those in Gen Z, are increasingly falling victim to internet swindlers. On October 8th, the cryptocurrency platform published a blog post detailing four major risks that young users should be aware of. These include scams involving recovery processes, fake websites, romance cons, and fraudulent activities on social media platforms.

Coinbase advises that due to the rapid expansion of digital currencies, users should be aware that their holdings do not come with the same level of security or protection as those in conventional banking systems.

Recently, there’s been a surge in fraudulent activities on social media platforms, often preying upon individuals with limited understanding of cryptocurrency. Interestingly, it’s not just novices who are being deceived; even those experienced with digital currencies can sometimes become victims.

Coinbase: Beware Of The Trap

According to Coinbase, it’s these social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram that can potentially pose significant threats. Fraudsters often disguise themselves as famous personalities or create false profiles, connecting with unsuspecting users. Once the connection is established, they lure these users into fraudulent investment opportunities, which ultimately prove to be deceitful.

Coinbase Sounds The Alarm: Gen Z Targeted By Crypto Scams

Example: Scammers in Vietnam have been found to create fake romantic relationships online, which ultimately resulted in the theft of approximately $700,000 from their victims. Coinbase advises its users to stay alert for unrequested messages that prompt them to invest in cryptocurrency. Additionally, the company encourages its users to confirm the identities of individuals involved in any online interactions.

The Perils Of Romance Scams

As a researcher, I’ve come across another pressing issue that goes by the name of “romance scams,” often colloquially referred to as “pig butchering.” In these schemes, cunning perpetrators establish relationships with unsuspecting individuals on dating apps or social media platforms. Their ultimate goal is to exploit the trust built and extract money from their victims.

As a concerned crypto investor myself, I can’t stress enough the importance of vigilance when it comes to the world of digital currencies. Just recently, an unfortunate incident occurred where an American citizen fell victim to a scam, losing a staggering $2.1 million in Bitcoin. This wasn’t just a financial loss; it was a harsh reminder of how these deceitful platforms can be downright dangerous.

Combating Fraudulent Activities

In the year 2023, an astounding number of over 67,000 cases of internet fraud were documented, with each victim losing a median amount of $3,800 on average. Coinbase advises its users to stay vigilant and not only be cautious but also to inform relevant law enforcement agencies and platforms such as their own about any suspicious activity.

It’s essential to educate people to prevent them from being tricked by similar frauds as more young individuals start investing in digital currencies, which brings added accountability along with it.

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2024-10-10 00:11