Crypto transfers are usually irreversible once completed on-chain. Fraud prevention is therefore not about recovering funds later; it is about spotting red flags before sending assets.
Common high-risk scenarios
- Investment group instructions: someone asks you to buy crypto in store and send it to a specific address.
- Fake support: impersonating an exchange, bank, law-enforcement body or OTC staff member.
- Romance or social scams: trust is built over time before the victim is pushed into crypto investment.
- Fake apps or websites: fake balances and fake profit screens, but no real withdrawals.
- Wallet takeover: someone asks for seed phrases, screenshots or remote phone control.
For more examples, read: Crypto scam playbook.
Seven red flags before visiting a store
- You are told not to tell staff the real purpose.
- Someone else provides a receiving address and you do not know who controls it.
- Guaranteed high returns or principal protection are promised.
- You are rushed and told the chance will disappear.
- You are asked to screenshot KYC, wallet or trade records.
- You are asked to install an unfamiliar app.
- You are discouraged from checking with family, friends or staff.
If the trade purpose is not your own decision or the address is not under your control, stop first. Buying crypto in store does not make the final destination safe.
KYC and AML are safeguards
KYC / AML procedures help reduce money laundering, scams and high-risk fund flows. Depending on amount and risk profile, identity verification, source-of-funds information or further checks may be needed.
Recommended pages:
What to do if you suspect fraud
- Stop transferring assets. Do not add more funds or "unlocking" fees.
- Save chats, addresses, transaction hashes, receipts, phone numbers and screenshots.
- If a bank or exchange account is involved, contact the platform quickly.
- If criminal fraud may be involved, follow local reporting procedures.
- Ask Funshell staff to clarify the legitimate in-store workflow before trading again.
Pre-trade safety checklist
- Do I control the receiving address?
- Do I understand why I am buying or selling?
- Am I being rushed by a third party?
- Can I open and operate my own wallet?
- Have I read the fraud-prevention page and FAQ?
If any answer is unclear, do not trade yet.
