Romance / Pig Butchering Scam
Scammers build a fake romantic or close personal relationship over weeks or months, then gradually steer the victim toward a fraudulent crypto investment. Also known as 'pig butchering' (sha zhu pan).
How This Scam Works
The scammer initiates contact through dating apps, social media, or 'wrong number' texts. Over weeks or months, they build emotional trust and an apparent romantic connection. Eventually they casually mention their success with crypto investing and encourage the victim to try a specific platform. The victim is guided to a fake exchange controlled by the scammer. Early small profits build confidence, leading to larger deposits. When the victim tries to withdraw, the funds are locked behind escalating fee demands. The scammer eventually disappears.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Online-only relationship where the person avoids video calls or meeting
- They 'accidentally' messaged you but kept talking
- Mentions of crypto success come up early and repeatedly
- They guide you to a specific, unknown investment platform
- The platform is not listed on any crypto aggregator or review site
- They claim to have insider knowledge or a relative who works in crypto
- Pressure to invest more and more over time
- Sudden emergencies when you question the investment
Common Phrases Scammers Use
“I can teach you how I made so much money in crypto”
“My uncle works at a crypto exchange and shared this opportunity”
“Just try it with a small amount first”
“I would never lie to you — I care about you”
“We can build our future together with these profits”
“You need to deposit the tax payment before withdrawing”
What to Do Right Now
- 1Cut contact with the scammer immediately
- 2Do not feel ashamed — these scams are sophisticated and target everyone
- 3Preserve all messages, photos, and platform screenshots
- 4Report to the FTC and FBI IC3
- 5Contact local law enforcement and file a police report
- 6Reach out to support organizations like AARP Fraud Watch (any age welcome)
What NOT to Do
- Do not send more money under any circumstances
- Do not confront the scammer — they may try to manipulate you further
- Do not blame yourself — these are professional criminal operations
- Do not hire a 'recovery service' that contacts you afterward
- Do not keep the situation secret — talk to someone you trust
How to Report It
- FTC ReportFraud
- FBI IC3
- AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline — 877-908-3360
- Global Anti-Scam Organization
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are romance / pig butchering scam scams?+
Can I get my money back after falling for a romance / pig butchering scam scam?+
How do I know if a person is legitimate?+
What should I do if someone I know is being targeted by a romance / pig butchering scam scam?+
This information is for educational awareness only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. If you have been the victim of a scam, contact law enforcement and consider consulting a licensed attorney.
Quick Facts
- Severity
- Critical Severity
- Category
- Romance Scam
- Prevalence
- Very Common
- Who Is Targeted
- People on dating apps, lonely or recently divorced individuals, social media users, older adults, but increasingly all demographics
- Red Flags
- 8 identified
Need Help Now?
If you are being scammed right now, stop all contact and payments immediately.