Security · Question 1 of 8
What are the most common crypto scams?
The most common scams rely on deception, not hacking: fake support, impersonation, 'guaranteed return' schemes, phishing sites, and requests for your seed phrase. Recognizing the patterns is the main defense.
Recurring patterns
- Impersonation of known companies, people, or 'support agents'.
- Promises of guaranteed or unusually high returns.
- Urgency and pressure to act before you can think.
- Requests for your seed phrase or private key — always a scam.
- Fake websites and apps that mimic real ones.
The common thread
Most scams manipulate the person, not the technology. Slowing down and verifying independently defeats the majority of them.
Why it matters
Scams cause more losses than technical exploits. Pattern recognition is a skill that protects you across every platform and asset.
A practical way to picture it
If an offer needs urgency, secrecy, or your recovery words, it's almost certainly a scam — the same way a 'bank' that asks for your PIN by text isn't your bank.
Risks & common mistakes
- No legitimate service ever needs your seed phrase.
- 'Guaranteed returns' in crypto are a hallmark of fraud.
- Urgency is a manipulation tactic — pressure is a red flag.
Put it into practice
Open ›
Rehearse safely in the Wallet Simulator
Related questions
Last reviewed 2026-06-25. This topic can change over time; always confirm current specifics from primary sources.