Crypto scams: how to spot them
The most common scams when buying and selling USDT in Kazakhstan and simple rules that help you avoid them.
Crypto transfers cannot be reversed, which is why scammers love them. Most schemes repeat themselves and are easy to recognise.
Common schemes
Messenger "exchangers"
Someone messages you on Telegram or WhatsApp offering USDT at a rate better than the market. After you pay, the "manager" disappears. Licensed exchangers work through their own website or app, not private messages.
Phishing sites
A copy of an exchanger or exchange site with a similar address. You enter your login, password and code, and the scammers take over your account. Open sites only from bookmarks or via links from the registry and the home page.
"Investments" with guaranteed returns
They promise 20–30% a month and show a growing balance in your dashboard, but never let you withdraw or demand a "withdrawal tax". This is a pyramid scheme.
Money mules
You are offered money to receive transfers on your card and buy crypto with them. This is money laundering, and the cardholder is held responsible.
Address swapping
Malware or a scammer swaps the wallet address in your clipboard or in a chat. Check the address before sending.
Warning signs
- a rate noticeably better than licensed exchangers;
- pressure: "this offer is valid for 10 minutes";
- requests for your seed phrase, SMS code or to install remote access software;
- payment to a private person's card;
- guaranteed returns.
If you were scammed
- Save the chats, addresses and transaction hashes.
- File a report with the police.
- Notify the exchange where the funds went: sometimes they can be frozen.
- Do not pay "recovery helpers": that is the second wave of the scam.
Updated October 6, 2026