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Crypto scams that shook the internet: a deep dive

Crypto Scams That Shook the Internet | New Concerns in the Crypto Community

By

Mohammed Aziz

Apr 14, 2025, 05:42 AM

Edited By

Laura Cheng

Updated

Apr 14, 2025, 10:40 AM

2 minutes of reading

A visual representation of major cryptocurrency scams, illustrating the chaos and financial turmoil caused by scams like Bitconnect, Mt. Gox, and FTX.

A wave of discussions among users reveals mounting trepidations about persistent crypto scams. Individuals are rallying for further protective measures, stressing that these scams aren't merely a thing of the past; they remain a real threat today.

The Crypto Wild West: New Players in the Game

If you thought rug pulls were bad, think again. From Ponzi schemes to horrendous exchange hacks, the digital currency landscape has faced seismic upheaval thanks to scams that have left many investors in peril. Viewer discretion is advisedβ€”your portfolio may experience PTSD after revisiting these chilling tales.

The Cult of the Ponzi King: Bitconnect

Imagine sinking your hard-earned cash into a token that climbs to $463, only to find out it’s part of a Ponzi scheme. Bitconnect once claimed a spot among the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market cap, boasting outlandish monthly returns of 40% before evaporating, leaving investors with nothing but despair.

> "This is still the gold standard of crypto cult scams."

The aftermath? A stark warning bell for newcomers stepping into these treacherous waters.

The Original Bitcoin Massacre: Mt. Gox

Rewind to 2014, when Mt. Gox controlled an astonishing 70% of all Bitcoin transactions before its infamous downfall, losing 850,000 BTC due to a hacking incident. Trust crumbled overnight, pushing the entire crypto community into turmoil.

Interestingly, this upheaval led to the adage,

"Not your keys, not your coins"β€”a harsh lesson at a steep price.*

Billion-Dollar Betrayal: FTX

Fast forward to recent times, FTX transformed from a flourishing crypto platform to an absolute catastrophe. Founder Sam Bankman-Fried, who once touted effective altruism, funneled user funds to his hedge fund, Alameda. When his schemes unraveled in 2023, a staggering $8 billion seemed to vanish overnight, leaving millions bewildered and seeking answers.

> "This wasn’t a rug pull; it was a carpet bomb."

SBF's dramatic fall from grace led to a guilty conviction on multiple counts, and the crypto world is still reeling from the shattered trust left in the wake.

Community Reactions: Growing Alarm and Frustration

Recent discussions have ignited a range of emotions among the community. Users express urgency for vigilance against scams that persist today. Some voices chime in:

- "I'm sick of these scams out there!"

- "Might as well add Voyager & Celsius to the list."

- "Next up to rug $catbat πŸ‘"

The sentiment is charged: a call to not just alert others about past scams but also to unmask those that could be lurking today. While some individuals express relief at having dodged past pitfalls, others are amplifying the importance of a secure and educated crypto environment.

"Thanks for this post. Crypto scams aren’t just history; they keep rearing their ugly heads like the launch of pumpfun."

Key Insights:

  • πŸ”» Bitconnect continues to haunt the narrative of devastating Ponzi schemes.

  • πŸ”” Mt. Gox remains a powerful lesson in cryptocurrency security.

  • πŸ’£ FTX’s downfall has skyrocketed calls for tighter oversight as user trust diminishes.

  • 🚨 Many are now suggesting notable platforms like Voyager and Celsius should also be highlighted due to their significant shortcomings.

As the crypto community reflects on these colossal scams, it confronts a pivotal moment. Are we ready to embrace the lessons from the past to prevent future losses? Let's build a stronger foundation for the next generation of crypto users to ensure they don't repeat these critical mistakes.