Pig butchering: what to do now

How it works

1. 1

   A friendly first contact

   A text from a “wrong number,” a dating match, or a message on social media. The conversation often moves to WhatsApp or Telegram.

2. 2

   An investment pitch

   Once there's trust, they show you a crypto opportunity on a website or app that looks real but is controlled by the scammer.

3. 3

   Fake gains

   The site shows big returns. You may be allowed a small withdrawal so you'll invest more.

4. 4

   The trap

   When you try to withdraw, you're told to pay a “tax,” fee or deposit first. Then they stop answering.

What to do right now

• Stop sending money. Don't pay any tax, fee or deposit to withdraw. The FBI warns that paying will not get your money back.
• Don't tell the scammer you're reporting them.
• Save everything. Messages, the site or app address, usernames, and your transaction IDs. Don't delete the chat.
• Report it. To the FBI's IC3, your local police and your exchange.
• Expect a second scam. People who lost money are often contacted by fake recovery services. Check any offer for red flags.

You don't have to handle this alone

• Age 60 or older? The National Elder Fraud Hotline can help you report: 1-833-372-8311.
• AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline: 877-908-3360, free for anyone.
• Feeling hopeless? Call or text 988, any time.

More free guides

• How to file with the FBI's IC3
• How to file a police report
• How to report a scam to your exchange
• How to find your transaction ID
• Bitcoin ATM scam: what to do now
• Spotting fake police, FBI and government officials
• What happens after you report
• Check a recovery offer for red flags
• Crypto scam terms, in plain words