Opinion

10 tips to stay away from crypto scams (PART 1)

Cryptocurrencies are a polarising topic. Some love them while others totally hate them. Undoubtedly the number of users has grown significantly in 2021, but also the number of scams out there. In this 2 parts column we will see how to avoid the most common scams in crypto.

1. Do your research:

Before investing in any cryptocurrency, it is important to thoroughly research the company or project behind it. Look for information about the team, the product, and the market it is targeting. This will help you to get a better understanding of the potential risks and rewards of investing in the cryptocurrency.

Some things to consider when doing your research include:

- The team: Who is behind the project? What is their track record and expertise? Are they transparent about their operations?

- The product: What is the cryptocurrency being used for? Is it solving a real problem or filling a need in the market?

- The market: Is the cryptocurrency targeting a niche market or a more mainstream audience? Is there a strong demand for the product or service being offered?

Be wary of any company or project that is not transparent about its operations or does not have a solid track record. This could be a red flag that the project is not legitimate.

2. Avoid investing in too-good-to-be-true opportunities:

It can be tempting to invest in opportunities that promise high returns with little or no risk. However, these types of investments are often scams. In the world of cryptocurrency, there is no such thing as a risk-free investment. It is important to be realistic about the potential returns of any investment and to carefully consider the risks involved.

If an investment opportunity seems too good to be true, it is best to proceed with caution. Take the time to do your research and be sure to verify any claims made by the company or project.

3. Look out for red flags:

There are several red flags that can indicate a crypto scam. It is important to be aware of these and to be cautious if you encounter any of them. Some common red flags include:

- Guaranteed returns: No investment is ever guaranteed, and any company or project that claims otherwise is likely to be a scam.

- Pressure to invest quickly: Scammers often try to pressure people into investing quickly by claiming that the opportunity is limited or that the price will increase soon. Don't fall for this tactic – take the time to do your research and make a well-informed decision.

- Lack of transparency: A legitimate company or project should be transparent about its operations and should be able to provide information about its team, product, and market. Be wary of any company or project that is not transparent or that refuses to provide this information.

4. Use a reputable exchange:

If you are looking to buy or sell cryptocurrency, it is important to use a reputable exchange. Look for exchanges that have a good reputation and a long history of operation. Avoid using any exchange that has a history of security breaches or fraudulent activity.

This is particularly sensitive topic as recently one of the top 3 crypto exchanges went bankrupt almost overnight.

Next we will look at 5 more ways to avoid crypto scams. (To be continued)