Missouri Warns of Rising Cryptocurrency Fraud: How to Spot and Report Crypto Scams

Missouri State Highway Patrol warns of rising cryptocurrency fraud. Learn to spot crypto scams, protect assets, and report incidents to MSHP. Get tips.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is warning residents about a growing number of cryptocurrency fraud cases reported across the state. As digital asset use rises, so do opportunistic crypto scams — and Missouri law enforcement is urging caution and vigilance.

What Missouri residents are seeing: Many of the complaints involve unsolicited investment offers, fake exchange sites, romance scams asking for crypto payments, and fraudsters posing as tech support or government officials. Scammers often pressure victims to send cryptocurrency immediately, arguing that transactions are irreversible — a tactic that takes advantage of the one-way nature of many crypto transfers.

How to spot crypto scams: Red flags include promises of guaranteed returns, unsolicited social media or email investment tips, unfamiliar wallet addresses, and requests to move funds to a private wallet or gift card. Other warning signs are spelling errors or suspicious URLs on purported exchange websites, high-pressure tactics, and requests to bypass standard security on your accounts.

Practical steps to protect your digital assets: Use reputable, regulated exchanges and enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Verify URLs and app sources before logging in, and never share private keys or recovery phrases. Treat unsolicited messages with skepticism and independently confirm any investment opportunity. Keep detailed records and screenshots of suspicious communications and transactions.

What to do if you’re a victim: Report the incident to local law enforcement and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. Prompt reporting helps investigators track patterns and potentially recover funds or prevent further victims. Also notify the platform or exchange involved and freeze accounts where possible.

Why reporting matters: Centralized reporting gives state investigators the data they need to connect cases and pursue organized fraud networks. Public awareness and quick action reduce the overall risk of cryptocurrency fraud in Missouri.

Stay informed and cautious as crypto use grows. If you encounter a suspicious cryptocurrency offer or believe you’ve been targeted, document everything and contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol and your local authorities immediately.

Back