Cryptocurrency Investment Scam: R22-54591

Released: March 1, 2023 at 9:39 a.m.

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In October 2022, the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) received a report about an individual victimized in a cryptocurrency investment scam. Over three months, the victim purchased 5.806 Bitcoin (BTC), valued at over $168,000 (at that time) in Canadian funds, and was directed on how to invest the funds.  
 
The WPS Cyber Investigation Team began an investigation and determined that, unbeknownst to the victim, most of the BTC had been transferred overseas and converted to another cryptocurrency called Tether (USDT). Tether is a type of cryptocurrency pursuing a steady valuation.
 
As a result of this investigation, WPS recovered 114,000 in USDT crypto assets (approximately $155,000 in Canadian funds) and returned it to the victim.
 
In this particular instance, the victim’s funds were recovered. However, crypto assets are difficult to track and often impossible to recover.
 
Potential investors should ensure they deal with a reputable entity before making financial transactions.
 
Further information on cryptocurrency investment fraud can be found on the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.

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