Cybercrime Southeast Europe Newsletter No. 102

Telegram Groups and “Trading Signals”: How One of the Most Common Online Investment Scams Works

In recent years, we have noticed a growing number of online fraud cases connected to Telegram groups that present themselves as investment communities, cryptocurrency trading groups, or providers of “safe trading signals.”

At first glance, these groups often appear highly professional. They frequently share charts, alleged trading results, screenshots of profits, comments from supposedly satisfied members, and messages designed to create the impression of constant activity and success.

This is precisely the core of such scams   creating the illusion that a large number of people are making profits and that the group represents a legitimate and successful investment community.

In previous cases, we have frequently encountered situations where, after joining such groups, users are offered “exclusive signals,” assistance from alleged mentors, or investment advice, after which they are encouraged to transfer funds to a specific platform or send cryptocurrency for supposed trading purposes.

Particularly concerning is the fact that some groups use pre-prepared comments, fabricated profit screenshots, and coordinated communication among members in order to create a sense of trust and credibility for new users.

In certain cases, organizers even conduct alleged “live trading” sessions during which supposed profits are displayed in real time, while other group members post comments about successful withdrawals and large earnings.

However, problems most commonly arise when users attempt to withdraw funds or refuse to make additional payments.

At that stage, various explanations usually appear regarding alleged taxes, verification procedures, account activation fees, or other supposed requirements that must be completed before the funds can be released.

In a number of cases, communication then suddenly stops entirely, administrators delete their accounts, shut down the groups, or continue operating under different names.

Based on previous experience, we believe it is particularly important to exercise caution when dealing with investment-related Telegram groups that guarantee secure profits, fast earnings, or “verified trading signals” without risk.

We also recommend additional caution in situations involving aggressive recruitment of new members, constant pressure to deposit funds, or insistence that payments be made exclusively through cryptocurrencies.

It is important to keep in mind that serious and regulated financial institutions rarely operate through anonymous Telegram groups or make promises of guaranteed and rapid profits.

Your DefendMe Team