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Crypto Scam Checklist
Crypto scams often rely on speed, confusion, fake authority, and wallet popups users do not fully understand. Use this checklist before clicking a link, connecting a wallet, signing a message, claiming a reward, or sending funds.
This page is educational and beginner-friendly. It helps users recognize warning signs and slow down before making risky decisions.
Stop if you see these red flags
- Someone asks for your seed phrase, recovery phrase, private key, or wallet backup.
- A message says you must act immediately or lose access to funds.
- A website asks you to “verify,” “sync,” “validate,” or “restore” your wallet.
- A support account contacts you first through direct messages.
- A free airdrop or mint requires unusual wallet approvals.
- The link was sent in a comment, direct message, fake ad, or unknown group chat.
- The offer sounds guaranteed, risk-free, secret, or too good to be true.
Before clicking a crypto link
Many scams begin with a link that looks official. The link may appear in a reply, direct message, sponsored-looking post, fake support thread, Discord message, Telegram group, or copied website.
- Check the domain spelling carefully.
- Do not trust links just because they use a familiar logo.
- Find official links from the project’s verified website or trusted announcement channels.
- Be careful with shortened links or links that redirect several times.
- Avoid clicking urgent links sent by unknown accounts.
Before connecting your wallet
A wallet connection may be the first step toward a risky signature, token approval, or transaction. Connecting a wallet should not be automatic.
- Ask why the website needs your wallet connected.
- Use a separate low-risk wallet for unfamiliar apps or claims.
- Do not connect your long-term storage wallet to unknown websites.
- Close the page if the wallet popup appears unexpectedly.
- Review the Wallet Safety guide before using new apps.
Before signing a message or transaction
Scammers often try to make wallet signatures feel harmless. Some signatures or approvals can still create serious risk. Never sign just because a website says it is required.
- Read the wallet popup and check what action is being requested.
- Be cautious with unlimited approvals or permissions you do not understand.
- Do not sign messages from unknown “support,” “airdrop,” or “security” websites.
- Reject requests that appear after clicking a suspicious link.
- Learn more about Wallet Drainer Scams.
Common crypto scam types
- Fake airdrops: Claim pages designed to trigger risky approvals or signatures.
- Wallet drainers: Malicious sites or contracts designed to move assets after a user signs.
- Fake support: Impersonators pretending to help with a wallet, exchange, or transaction problem.
- Impersonation: Fake accounts copying projects, founders, influencers, or support teams.
- Recovery scams: People claiming they can recover lost crypto in exchange for fees or sensitive information.
- Investment pressure: Promises of guaranteed profit, secret access, or urgent limited-time deposits.
The 60-second crypto safety check
- Did I reach this website through an official source?
- Is someone pressuring me to act quickly?
- Is the website asking for my seed phrase, private key, or recovery information?
- Am I using a wallet that I can afford to expose to this risk?
- Do I understand what I am signing?
- Would I still trust this offer if there were no timer, hype, or direct message?
If the answer feels unclear, pause. Scammers benefit when users rush.
Related guides
Fake Airdrop Checklist
Review warning signs before claiming airdrops or free mints.
Educational disclaimer: Coinonymity provides educational information only. It is not legal, financial, tax, compliance, or security advice. Crypto scams can cause serious loss. Consider qualified professional guidance when needed.