Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control warns about a growing number of cryptocurrency fraud cases across the state. Investigators have seen scams increasingly targeting older adults and other members of the public, resulting in significant financial losses. Criminals use the internet, social media, email, dating sites, text messages, end-to-end encrypted messaging apps and phone calls to coax victims into sending money via cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin. These schemes often appear legitimate and rely on urgency, fear, or promised profits, and victims are frequently groomed through established mutual trust before money is requested.
Common warning signs include pressure to act quickly or claims that immediate action is required to avoid arrest, financial loss, or legal trouble. Requests for payment in cryptocurrency, gift cards, wire transfers, or at Bitcoin ATMs. Unsolicited contact from individuals claiming to represent government agencies, financial institutions, tech support, or investment firms. Promises of guaranteed profits or risk-free investments and instructions to keep the transaction secret.
What you can do is verify requests for money or information and consult trusted family members or professionals before making financial decisions. Report suspected fraud immediately to local law enforcement and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Enable two-factor authentication on all crypto accounts, keep devices updated, and use strong passwords. The Patrol encourages families and caregivers to discuss these scams with older adults to help them recognize the warning signs, and for help you can contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-392-8222 or file a complaint online.
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