Cryptocurrency fraud is rapidly gaining popularity, and artificial intelligence technologies only add oils to the fire. Over the past 12 months, the number of such scams has increased by 1216%. In January 2025 alone, more than 150 cases were identified associated with cryptocurrency fraud. With such statistics, Fortra shared with the publication of Cybernews.
The growth of interest in digital assets among cybercriminals is explained by several reasons. Firstly, the stolen means are easily washed, and a sharp increase in bitcoin, which recently overcame the $ 100,000 mark, makes cryptocurrency especially attractive. In addition, researchers note the connection of such attacks with the BeC, when attackers pretend to be the company’s proxies and deceive employees to transfer money or provide access to confidential data.
Although gift cards are still the main way to withdraw stolen funds (20.7% of cases), cryptocurrency payments also occupy a noticeable share – 8.3%.
In January 2025, 122 unique cryptocurrencies associated with fraudulent schemes were discovered. On average, the amount of replenishment was $ 5075, and the range varied from $ 0.17 to $ 53438. The most active wallet received 0.09 BTC (about $ 9,000) for only 2 transactions.
AI automation using AI makes fraudulent schemes even more effective. Earlier, errors in grammar and stylistics allowed the victims to recognize a fake, but modern algorithms allow you to create impeccably compiled messages that are massively sent to potential casualties along with crypto -core addresses.
An additional fraud growth factor is the so -called SEXTORTION -KITS, distributed in shadow forums. Such tools allow beginners in cybercrime to conduct large -scale extortion campaigns using ducking databases. In September 2024, the US police warned of a splash of automated blackmail circuits when scammers used email addresses and claimed that they have compromising records with webcams.
The increase in the cost of cryptocurrencies, the automation of fraud and the appearance of easy -to -use tools for scammers create an ideal environment for scammers. Researchers warn that in the coming months the scale of cryptocurrency fraud can only increase.