Crypto Scams Get Smarter With AI: How to Protect Your Money

Recent findings from Bitget’s Anti-Scam Research Report highlight the alarming rise in cryptocurrency scams, exacerbated by the use of artificial intelligence. The report notes $4.6 billion in global losses in 2024, with tactics evolving to include deepfakes and social engineering. Investors are urged to remain vigilant, conducting due diligence and safeguarding private keys to avoid falling prey to these sophisticated threats.

Scammers are getting more sophisticated, using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their schemes, according to the recently published 2025 Anti-Scam Research Report by Bitget. In collaboration with blockchain security experts SlowMist and Elliptic, the report highlights that global losses from crypto scams reached a staggering $4.6 billion during 2024. Gone are the days when simple phishing emails constituted the bulk of scams; these days we’re seeing fake Zoom calls, convincing deepfake videos, and dubious job offers loaded with malware.

This isn’t just a random collection of incidents. The report suggests that organised fraud rings are now operating across borders, and what’s alarming is that scams are not only becoming more frequent but also more credible and increasingly difficult to trace. There’s a clear evolution in tactics, too. According to the report, three primary types of scams are responsible for most losses:

1. Deepfake impersonation: This involves using AI technology to clone a person’s likeness or voice in videos or calls.
2. Social engineering schemes: Scammers trick victims into relinquishing access or money by posing as trusted contacts.
3. Ponzi-style projects: These scams masquerade as legitimate DeFi or NFT ventures, promising high returns before they inevitably crash when investment interest wanes.

Once scammers pocket the stolen funds, they typically wash them through an array of blockchain tools like cross-chain bridges and mixers. This obscures the financial trail, complicating recovery efforts. As cryptocurrencies continue to attract investors looking to diversify their portfolios, their popularity also invites new dangers. Unfortunately, in this rapidly evolving landscape, fraudsters often seem to be a step ahead.

For those considering entering the crypto market—or who are already involved—here are some practical tips to safeguard your investments. First off, be wary of new tokens or platforms that promise sky-high returns; these often come with high risk. Platforms like Bitget, with established reputations, generally conduct audits before listing new assets. Though no exchange offers a foolproof guarantee, being associated with a reputable entity usually means some degree of scrutiny.

Next up, due diligence is paramount. Always investigate the team behind any project you’re interested in. Legitimate developers typically have a digital footprint: a LinkedIn profile, GitHub repositories, or previous projects. If the founders remain anonymous or can’t be verified through trusted sources, that should raise a red flag.

Also, never—under any circumstances—share your private keys. Consider them akin to the PIN for your bank account. If someone asks for them, it’s a definitive sign of a scam. And if offers come in the form of airdrops, job opportunities, or giveaways demanding cryptocurrency as an entry price, tread carefully. Genuine giveaways will never require you to pay to take part.

Another tactic fraudsters use is to create a sense of urgency, pushing you into rash decisions. Whether you see a limited-time offer or feel pressured during a quick Zoom interview, always take a moment to think and verify before acting. Security audits are beneficial—if a project has undergone one, expect them to shout about it. Bitget, for instance, has introduced an Anti-Scam Hub aimed at educating users about potential threats.

AI is a game-changer for scammers, allowing them to produce deepfakes, create plausible websites, and develop chatbots that can fool even savvy investors into believing they’re interacting with real people. As these tactics become increasingly convincing, the risks rise correspondingly.

Overall, it’s not cryptocurrencies that pose the problem; it’s how they can be misused by dishonest individuals. By arming yourself with knowledge and applying solid cybersecurity practices, you can stay ahead of the con artists. Ultimately, Bitget’s report serves as both a warning and a wake-up call: as scammers become smarter, so must we all. If ever in doubt about a project, seek independent opinions, verify information sources, and—most importantly—always do your own research.