W5 investigates cryptocurrency scams targeting Canadians

CTV's W5 has released the second part of its investigation into cryptocurrency scams preying on Canadians. The report examines the individuals behind the fraudulent calls and their apparent eagerness to deprive victims of their life savings.

The investigation, titled 'Crypto-fraud: W5 investigates scams targeting Canadians,' delves deeper into the operations of those conducting these deceptive schemes. It highlights how scammers contact Canadians with false promises related to cryptocurrency investments, aiming to extract substantial financial losses from unsuspecting individuals.

This installment builds on prior reporting by focusing on the perpetrators' readiness and willingness to execute the frauds. The scams involve unsolicited calls that lure victims into transferring funds under the guise of lucrative crypto opportunities, often resulting in the loss of life savings.

Published on December 19, 2025, the piece underscores the persistent threat these operations pose to Canadian consumers, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution in handling unsolicited financial propositions.

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Illustration of a woman falling victim to a crypto ATM scam in Washington D.C., with a warning sign in the background, for a news article on prosecutors' alert.
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Prosecutors warn of crypto ATM scam in Washington

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A woman in Washington, D.C., claims she lost thousands in a cryptocurrency scam involving ATMs. The city's top prosecutor accuses an ATM provider of enabling the fraud, where victims are tricked into buying bitcoin to supposedly protect their money. California regulators have also cracked down on similar kiosk operators for overcharging consumers.

European authorities have arrested nine suspects in a multinational operation targeting a cryptocurrency investment fraud network that stole at least €600 million from victims. The late October sweep involved agencies from several countries and resulted in the seizure of cash, cryptocurrency, and luxury items. Victims were lured through deceptive online tactics but could not recover their funds.

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The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has sued several cryptocurrency companies for allegedly defrauding retail investors out of more than $14 million through fake WhatsApp investment groups and bogus trading platforms. The scheme, which ran from January 2024 to January 2025, used social media ads, deepfake videos, and AI-generated tips to lure victims. Regulators say the operators, based in China, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, misappropriated funds sent to overseas accounts.

The Albemarle County Police Department, Virginia State Police, and FBI are alerting residents to a surge in cryptocurrency scams targeting the elderly. From January 1 to February 28, 2025, 29 cases were reported in Albemarle County, with nine victims losing $240,000 total. Officials stress early reporting to improve recovery chances.

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A leaked French police report reveals that overseas criminal masterminds are behind many recent cryptocurrency-related kidnappings in France. Between July 2023 and the end of 2025, authorities recorded 40 such organized cases, with more than half targeting crypto holders or sector workers. Victims, mostly young men flaunting their wealth online, face rising threats coordinated through local recruiters.

Physical assaults known as wrench attacks against cryptocurrency holders are increasing in number and severity, according to recent analyses. These incidents correlate with fluctuations in crypto market values, prompting calls for enhanced personal security measures. While overall risks to individual holders may be decreasing, the trend highlights vulnerabilities in self-custody practices.

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Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson has issued a warning about a sharp increase in Bitcoin ATM scams targeting residents. He urges caution amid the growing use of cryptocurrency in the state. The alert highlights the risks associated with these machines, which are increasingly exploited by fraudsters.

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