# Crypto scams in the UK — how to spot them and report them

Be suspicious of guaranteed profits, celebrity endorsements, cold messages on WhatsApp or Instagram, and anyone rushing you. Check the FCA register and warning list before sending money. Report fraud to Action Fraud.

## Key facts
- Nobody can guarantee crypto profits — ever.
- Real firms are on the FCA register. Scammers often are not.
- Never share your recovery phrase — legitimate support will never ask.
- If you already lost money, beware 'recovery' scammers asking for upfront fees.

## Common scam types

Fake investment platforms show false profits until you try to withdraw. Phishing steals login or wallet credentials. Romance fraud builds trust before requesting crypto transfers. Airdrop and wallet-drainer scams trick you into signing malicious transactions. Clone firms impersonate real FCA-registered businesses.
## Red flags

Guaranteed high returns, unregistered firms, pressure to invest quickly, requests for remote access to your device, and anyone asking for your seed phrase or private keys. Check the FCA register and warning list before transferring funds.
## How to report

Report crimes to Action Fraud (the national reporting centre for England, Wales and Northern Ireland). Report unauthorised firms and misleading promotions to the FCA. If you paid by bank transfer, contact your bank immediately — they may participate in APP fraud reimbursement where applicable.
## Recovery scams

After a loss, fraudsters may pose as recovery agents demanding upfront fees. Legitimate law enforcement and regulators do not charge to investigate your case. Be wary of cold calls offering to retrieve lost crypto.

## FAQs
### Can I get my crypto back after a scam?

Recovery is difficult because blockchain transfers are usually irreversible. Report promptly — police and banks may act in some APP fraud cases.
### Are celebrity crypto ads safe?

Not necessarily. Promotions must still be FCA-approved. The FCA has taken action against misleading influencer promotions.

## Sources

- [FCA — Cryptoasset scams](https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/cryptoasset-scams)
- [Action Fraud — Report fraud](https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/)
- [FCA — Warning list of unauthorised firms](https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/warning-list-unauthorised-firms)

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— Digital Assets UK (https://digital-assets.co.uk/scams/crypto-scams-uk/), reviewed 2026-06-23. Source: https://www.fca.org.uk/consumers/cryptoasset-scams