CoinMarketCap Issues Urgent Warning Over Scammer Impersonations

    By

    Hanan Zuhry

    Hanan Zuhry

    CoinMarketCap has issued an urgent warning about scammers impersonating its team via phone calls. As crypto scams surge globally, users are advised to stay alert and verify communications through official channels only.

    CoinMarketCap Issues Urgent Warning Over Scammer Impersonations

    Quick Take

    Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed.

    • CoinMarketCap alerts users: CMC never makes phone calls or asks for personal info

    • Impersonation scams in crypto are on the rise, targeting users with fake support calls

    • Over $1.7 billion lost to crypto scams in 2024, with social engineering as a leading tactic

    • Users are urged to verify suspicious messages independently before taking action

    In a recent alert posted on their official X account, CoinMarketCap (CMC), the world’s most visited cryptocurrency tracking platform, cautioned users to remain vigilant against scammers posing as CMC representatives. The warning, posted just 25 minutes ago, emphasized that CoinMarketCap does not have a phone number and will never initiate unsolicited calls. 

    The company urged users to verify all suspicious communications through their official support request portal at coinmarketcap.com/request. This latest development underlines a concerning trend in the crypto space—an uptick in social engineering attacks targeting both newcomers and seasoned investors.

    A Surge in Sophisticated Crypto Scams

    Over the past two years, the cryptocurrency market has seen a staggering rise in fraud-related incidents. According to a 2024 Chainalysis report, scammers managed to steal over $1.7 billion from unsuspecting users globally, with impersonation scams accounting for a significant portion of the total. These scams are often disguised under the veil of legitimacy, using brand names like CoinMarketCap, Binance, and MetaMask to gain user trust before manipulating victims into giving up personal details or transferring funds

    Why Crypto Scams Are On the Rise

    Several factors contribute to the alarming growth of scams in the digital asset sector. First, the explosion of interest in crypto—especially among retail investors—has created a massive pool of potential targets. Many new users lack the technical literacy or awareness to differentiate between official communication and fraudulent schemes. Second, the fast-paced environment of presales, airdrops, and yield farming creates urgency, making it easier for scammers to manipulate emotions and exploit fear of missing out (FOMO).

    How Users Can Protect Themselves

    In light of these developments, experts advise crypto users to adopt a strict verification-first mindset. Always double-check the URLs of websites you visit, enable two-factor authentication, and never share your private keys or seed phrases. Remember, no legitimate platform will ever ask for this information—especially not over a call.

    When in doubt, go directly to official websites instead of clicking on links received through emails or messages. Bookmark trusted sources, and keep an eye out for unusual language or requests in communications that claim to be from well-known platforms. It’s also advisable to follow official social media handles and announcements regularly to stay updated on the latest scam alerts.

    CoinMarketCap’s Final Word: Stay Vigilant

    Returning to CoinMarketCap’s statement, the company reiterated its commitment to user safety and transparency. By clarifying that it does not operate via phone calls, CMC aims to minimize the risk of users falling for voice-based phishing scams. The platform’s proactive stance should serve as a wake-up call to the crypto community: in an industry without intermediaries, individual responsibility becomes even more crucial.

    For support or to report suspicious activity, CoinMarketCap urges users to reach out through their official support channel. As the crypto space continues to evolve, so do the threats—and staying informed remains the best line of defense.

    Google News Icon

    Follow us on Google News

    Get the latest crypto insights and updates.

    Follow

    Loading more news...