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Online Bitcoin scam using celebrity names to endorse it costs an elderly man more than $80,000 in life savings

The story of fraud, pretending to borrow images of celebrities or famous investors who are very familiar in the cryptocurrency market (or other financial markets). However, the number of people cheated is still huge. Recently, a Bitcoin scam (anonymity) was exposed when using images of celebrities such as Dick Smith (Australian businessman and founder of Dick Smith Electronics), talented director Mel Gibson, the 18th wealthiest billionaire in the world David Koch and TV presenter Waleed Aly to create public trust.

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Despite being cautious, victims still fall into the trap of Bitcoin scam

John is one of hundreds and thousands of people who have fallen into the trap of online scams, using the identities of celebrities. Initially, the 80-year-old said he had no interest in the project on the Internet. However, when he saw David Koch promoting the project on Facebook and entrepreneur Dick Smith was talking about it, he thought, “This has to be true.”

And finally, the tragic consequence is that John immediately put $ 500 into the project and was encouraged to spend more cash.

He shared:

“The project owner gave me all the profit figures, project information… I thought it was true and sent him money. Six weeks later, after investing more than $ 80,000. I realized it was a scam when I didn’t receive any interest. He kept promising me the money. Finally, I contacted the bank, and they blocked my account.”

John went to the police station, but the police said they were too busy to help him.

He shared pitifully:

“I didn’t know it was a scam. I lost almost $ 82,000, and it felt like my heart was ripped from my chest.”

He was too ashamed to pursue this lawsuit and continued hoping, and John could somehow get his money back.

Cybersecurity expert David Lacey said there are about 16 people a day getting into scams like John, and this number is increasing.

He said:

“We have seen a 27% increase in the last three months compared to this time last year. I guess low-interest rates, restricted incomes, and financial tensions are pushing some people into accepting take more risks than before.”

Before the information that his image was used for illegal purposes, Dick Smith sought the help of state and federal police, issued a notice calling them to stop the fraudulent activities. However, the results were unsuccessful.

Smith said:

“I cannot understand why the police think that the efforts to stop these projects are impossible to stop. Because, if the victims have sent money to them, then surely we can. following that money.”

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Businessman Dick Smith says he has advised state and federal police about the Bitcoin scam

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is also aware of the Bitcoin scam.

“ASIC is aware of the fake testimonials used to legitimize scams. The use of images of celebrities, businesses, and government agencies in marketing products and translations Financial services are one of the common scams.”

ASIC adds:

“Scammers are usually based overseas. When money is paid from an Australian account or credit card into an Australian or foreign account, it is generally deleted and transferred within minutes to foreign accounts. This means that once the money has been deposited, it is nearly impossible to recover the money. They should also report the problem to the police.”

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