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My Crypto Guide
Module 13 of 16

Micro Lesson · 5–7 minutes

Spot the Scams

Bitcoin scams usually do not beat the Bitcoin network. They trick people instead. This lesson shows you the common patterns, the big red flags, and the simple habits that stop most scams before they start.

Fake support Giveaway scams Address tricks Guaranteed returns
This is Module 13 of 16. The goal is to help you recognise scam patterns quickly, slow down when something feels urgent, and protect your wallet with better habits.

Step 1 of 8 · Main pattern

Most scams follow the same emotional pattern

They usually start with a hook, then add urgency, then try to extract money or secrets before you slow down and think clearly.

  • Hook: free Bitcoin, urgent problem, exclusive access, easy profit.
  • Pressure: act now, do not wait, click here, send first.
  • Take: your Bitcoin, your login, or your recovery phrase.
Simple way to think about it: scams try to hurry you past your common sense.

Step 2 of 8 · Giveaway trap

“Send Bitcoin and we’ll send more back” is a classic scam

This is one of the most common and easiest-to-spot scam types. It often copies real logos, real public figures, or fake livestreams to look believable.

  • Real giveaways do not require you to send first.
  • Scam pages often use urgency to stop you checking properly.
  • If you send first, it is usually gone.
If the offer depends on you paying upfront to “unlock” something better, treat it as a scam by default.
Pay-to-receive is one of the biggest red flags in crypto.

Step 3 of 8 · Imposters

Fake support usually wants one thing: your recovery phrase

A wallet company, exchange, or support person does not need your recovery phrase to help you. That phrase is the master key to your funds.

  • No legitimate support should ask for it.
  • Screen-share and remote-access requests can also be dangerous.
  • Type the official website yourself instead of trusting links in messages.
Never share your recovery phrase. Not once. Not with anyone.

Step 4 of 8 · Sending safely

Scammers also trick people with addresses and QR codes

Sometimes the scam is not a fake promise. Sometimes it is simply getting you to send to the wrong destination.

  • Clipboard hijack: copied addresses get swapped by malware.
  • Address poisoning: look-alike addresses appear in your history so you copy the wrong one later.
  • QR swaps: a scam QR can point somewhere different from what you expect.
Best habit: check the first and last characters, then do a small test send first.
A test send is boring, but it protects you from expensive mistakes.

Step 5 of 8 · Profit promises

“Guaranteed returns” is another major red flag

Crypto scams often promise fixed daily or weekly returns, special insider access, or zero-risk profit. That combination should make you suspicious immediately.

  • Real investing involves uncertainty.
  • Scams mix profit promises with urgency.
  • They often push private chats, VIP groups, or secret methods.
Guaranteed profit plus urgency is usually a scam formula.

Step 6 of 8 · Vocabulary

Quick glossary

Tap each card to flip it.

Plain English first. Correct term second.

Step 7 of 8 · Recap

Scam protection in one calm summary

  • Slow down when something feels urgent.
  • Never share your recovery phrase.
  • Do not trust “send first” offers.
  • Check addresses carefully and use test sends.
If you feel rushed, confused, or pressured, pause first. Pausing alone prevents a lot of losses.
You’re ready for a quick check.

Quick check

Select all major red flags

Wrap-up

Nice work! 🎉

You now understand the main Bitcoin scam patterns: fake support, send-first giveaways, address tricks, QR traps, and guaranteed-return promises. More importantly, you know the habits that help stop them.

Score: 0/1
Next lesson: Simple Plan — how to build a calm, realistic beginner plan without overcomplicating your first steps.