High riskCrypto & Investment Scams

Pig Butchering Scam

In this scam, someone builds a friendship or romance over weeks, often after a wrong-number text or dating app, then steers you into a fake crypto platform that shows fake gains before the money disappears.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
Long-con investment scam
Main red flag
A new online friend or partner gradually introduces a 'can't-miss' crypto investment on a platform they recommend.
What to do first
Stop sending money and do not invest more. Be cautious of any investment introduced by someone you have only met online.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, someone builds a friendship or romance over weeks, often after a wrong-number text or dating app, then steers you into a fake crypto platform that shows fake gains before the money disappears.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'I'm so glad we connected! My uncle taught me a trading method that's been very good to me. I can guide you step by step on this platform and we can grow our future together: [unfamiliar link]'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A new contact from a wrong-number text or dating app who quickly becomes very close
  • Conversation that gradually shifts towards crypto or trading 'tips'
  • An investment platform you were told about rather than found yourself
  • Early small withdrawals that work, encouraging you to invest much more
  • Pressure or emotional appeals when you hesitate or try to withdraw

What to do

  • Stop sending money and do not invest more, even if shown big 'gains'
  • Be cautious of any investment introduced by someone met online
  • Try to withdraw a larger amount and watch for new fees or excuses
  • Talk to someone you trust before making any further decisions

If you already clicked or replied

  • Stop all further transfers immediately
  • Contact your bank or crypto exchange to report the transactions
  • Save all chats, screenshots, and platform details as evidence
  • Report it to your national fraud authority and the dating or messaging platform

What not to do

  • Do not pay 'taxes' or 'fees' to release your supposed profits
  • Do not send more money to recover what you have lost
  • Do not share wallet keys, logins, or verification codes

Similar scams

High risk Crypto & Investment

Crypto Investment Scam

This scam promises high or guaranteed crypto returns through a fake platform, shows paper profits to encourage bigger deposits, then blocks withdrawals.
High risk Social Media

Romance Scam DM

This scam builds an online romantic relationship through messages, then invents an emergency or investment to ask for money, while always avoiding meeting in person.
Medium risk Text Message

Wrong Number Text Scam

This scam starts with a friendly 'wrong number' text, builds a casual conversation over time, and eventually steers you toward a fake investment.

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called pig butchering?
The term describes how scammers 'fatten up' trust and investment over time before taking everything at once. It often starts with friendly chat and ends with a fake platform that traps your money.
The platform shows my profits growing, so isn't it real?
Fake platforms are designed to display growing balances and may even allow small early withdrawals. These are tactics to build confidence so you invest much larger sums.
Why can't I withdraw my money now?
Being told you must pay 'taxes' or 'fees' before withdrawing is a common warning sign. Genuine platforms do not require new upfront payments to release your own funds.
What should I do if I think I am being targeted?
Stop investing, keep all messages, and report it to your bank, crypto exchange, and national fraud authority. Speaking to someone you trust can help you step back.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.