Scammers have stolen millions of dollars in cryptocurrency from individuals seeking remote work, as part of a sophisticated scheme, according to New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The scammers reportedly targeted victims through unsolicited text messages, offering remote jobs that involved reviewing products online to generate “market data.” However, to begin earning, victims were required to open cryptocurrency accounts and maintain balances equal to or greater than the cost of the products they were supposedly reviewing.
According to James’ office, victims were assured they would be reimbursed, along with commission, but the funds were instead funneled into the scammers’ cryptocurrency wallets. The product reviews were conducted on a fake website created as part of the ruse.
The lawsuit highlights seven victims, identified by pseudonyms, residing in New York, Virginia, and Florida. Among them, a New York resident lost over $100,000, while a Florida woman was defrauded of more than $300,000.
“Deceiving individuals who are simply looking for remote work to support their families is cruel and unacceptable,” James said in a statement. “Scammers exploited the trust of New Yorkers, promising them flexible, good-paying jobs, only to trick them into buying cryptocurrency and stealing it.”
James is seeking to return the stolen funds to the victims.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz added that her office’s cryptocurrency unit traced over $2 million in stolen assets and identified the digital wallets holding the funds. In collaboration with James’ office, they were able to freeze the accounts, ensuring the funds could eventually be returned to their rightful owners.
“These work scams not only rob victims of their money but also erode trust in the job market,” Katz said.