How to Protect Yourself from Scams

Modified on Tue, 23 Jun at 3:16 PM

Scammers target crypto users because transactions are irreversible. Understanding the most common tactics is the first step to staying safe.

You are the sole owner of your wallet. Wirex One is non-custodial — we do not hold your keys, cannot access your wallet, and cannot recover your funds if access is lost. It is your responsibility to keep your private key, Passkey, and authenticator app safe, backed up, and always accessible. Never delete them, never lose them, and never share them. If you lose access to all your authentication methods and your private key, access to your funds cannot be restored — by anyone.

Common crypto scams

Fake support scams

A scammer contacts you posing as Wirex One support — often via Telegram, WhatsApp, or social media — and offers to help resolve an issue. They will eventually ask for your private key, login details, or ask you to send funds to a "verification wallet." It is always a scam.

Investment scams

Someone promises guaranteed returns, exclusive crypto opportunities, or insider trading signals. They may ask you to deposit funds into a wallet or platform they control. Once you do, the funds disappear and contact is cut.

Romance scams

A scammer builds a relationship with you over weeks or months, then introduces a "profitable investment opportunity." Once trust is established, they guide you to send crypto — which is never returned.

Impersonation scams

Scammers create fake Wirex One accounts on social media, fake websites, or fake apps. They look almost identical to the real thing. Always download Wirex One only from the official app stores and verify URLs carefully.

Giveaway scams

"Send 0.1 ETH and receive 0.5 ETH back." No legitimate platform or person will ever ask you to send crypto first in order to receive more. This is always a scam.

SIM swap attacks

A scammer contacts your mobile carrier pretending to be you and transfers your phone number to their SIM. This gives them access to SMS-based 2FA codes. Use an authenticator app instead of SMS for 2FA wherever possible.

Red flags to watch for

  • Anyone asking for your private key, seed phrase, or 2FA code
  • Pressure to act quickly — "limited time offer", "your account will be closed"
  • Promises of guaranteed profits or returns
  • Requests to move funds to an external wallet "for safety"
  • Unsolicited contact from someone claiming to be Wirex One
  • A deal that sounds too good to be true

How to stay safe

  • Use strong, unique passwords — never reuse passwords across platforms.
  • Enable 2FA — use an authenticator app, not SMS.
  • Set up a Passkey — the most secure authentication method available in Wirex One.
  • Verify before you act — if something feels off, go directly to the official app and contact support.
  • Never rush — scammers create urgency on purpose. Take your time.
  • Check URLs carefully — bookmark the official Wirex One app and website.

FAQ

I sent funds to a scammer. Can I get them back?
Unfortunately, blockchain transactions are irreversible. Once funds leave your wallet, they cannot be recalled by Wirex One or anyone else. Contact support immediately — we will do everything we can to assist, but recovery cannot be guaranteed.
Someone sent me crypto out of nowhere. Is this a scam?
Potentially. Unsolicited crypto can be a "dusting attack" designed to track your wallet activity, or an attempt to get you to interact with a malicious contract. Do not interact with unknown tokens — contact Wirex One support if you're unsure.
How do I know if a Wirex One social media account is real?
Check for the verified badge and compare the handle carefully against Wirex One's official channels. When in doubt, contact support via the in-app chat — never through social media.
What should I do if I think I've been scammed?
Act fast — secure your account, move any remaining funds to safety, and contact Wirex One support immediately. Also report the scam to your local financial authority or cybercrime unit.
Can Wirex One freeze a scammer's account?
If the scammer used a Wirex One account, we can investigate and take action within our platform. However, we cannot reverse blockchain transactions or freeze wallets outside our control.

Still have questions?

Our support team is here to help
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