Scammers tricked victims into revealing seed phrases by impersonating police and crypto wallet hosts, leading to major losses.
Fake Police Reports Used in Crypto Scam
Fraudsters stole over $1.2 million from nine victims in Kent, England, by misusing personal data from a leak to generate fake police reports.
Kent Police warned residents that scammers impersonated law enforcement and crypto wallet providers to coerce victims into revealing their seed phrases.
How the Scam Worked
- Personal details leaked and used to create fake Action Fraud reports.
- Scammers posed as police, falsely claiming victims were under investigation.
- Victims then received a second call from a fake crypto wallet security officer.
- Under pressure, victims revealed their seed phrases, allowing scammers to access and drain their wallets.
Kent Police Warns Against Urgency Scams
Detective Sergeant Darryll Paulson urged victims not to share personal data over the phone, stating:
“Scammers are becoming increasingly more calculating in their methods … They create urgency to make victims act quickly.”
Protecting Against Crypto Fraud
- Never share your seed phrase—it grants full control over your wallet.
- Verify caller identities—police and crypto firms will never request login credentials.
- Report scams immediately—victims should not feel embarrassed about coming forward.
Rising Threats in Crypto Security
With crypto fraud becoming more sophisticated, experts warn users to stay alert, as scammers continue exploiting identity theft for financial crimes.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on 13Desk is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. We strongly recommend conducting your own research and consulting with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Investing in cryptocurrencies carries risks, and you should only invest what you can afford to lose. 13Desk is not responsible for any financial losses incurred from your investment activities.
