New York authorities freeze $300K tied to crypto scammers targeting Russian speakers

From Cointelegraph

June 18, 2025 4:01:00 PM:

New York officials recover $140,000 and freeze $300,000 in stolen funds from a cryptocurrency scam using fake social media ads targeting Russian speakers. Scheme caused over $1 million in losses with 300 victims in Brooklyn. Scammers used fake crypto investment website claiming to have BitLicense. Meta shut down 700 ads.

Chainalysis reports $51 billion in illicit transactions involving digital assets in 2024. Ransomware payments drop 35%, but concerns rise over AI facilitating scams. Other scams include fake XRP airdrops impersonating Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse. CEO faces legal issues with SEC. Bitcoin’s impact on traditional finance explored.

Read more at Cointelegraph: NY Authorities Freeze $300K Linked To Crypto Scammers