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?
Someone sent me crypto out of nowhere. Is this a scam?
How do I know if a Wirex One social media account is real?
What should I do if I think I've been scammed?
Can Wirex One freeze a scammer's account?
Still have questions?
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