When investing in cryptocurrency it’s extremely important to be mindful of various scams that you could be targeted for. There are a number of individuals that are working to create scams that con people out of Bitcoins and other cryptocurrency. Because it’s quite easy to transfer crypto and because it could be difficult to receive a refund on cryptocurrency, it can be one of the perfect tools for the creation of financial scams.
A recent cryptocurrency pyramid scheme was highly successful in targeting around 6000 people internationally from a hub in Tokyo. Eight men were arrested and charged with stealing roughly $68.42 million in various cryptocurrencies.
The company that they were associated with was called Sener and they claimed to be an official United States investment firm. The company that they created was unregistered and they were collecting cryptocurrency from people to have it then reinvested at several levels of membership status. The group held a series of seminars and gatherings promising monthly returns of roughly 20% on any of the money invested through their system. Customers could receive a referral bonus for bringing in new investors to the system.
The company that they created was widely successful through their seminars as well as through a series of YouTube videos that were published on the subject of cyptocurrency investment with them. The group was able to work unimpeded over several months without for filling their promise and while operating illegally without registration.
Their practices would have continued if a lawsuit was not properly filed against them. A group of 73 of their members stepped forward to create a lawsuit in the Tokyo District Court. This group of individuals is seeking ¥370 million in damages for the funds that were taken from them in the illegal operation of this business.
There are a number of other members that bought into this company that have still yet to come forward or request any type of compensation for the scheme.
As news continues to spread about Sener, more of their victims are coming forward in an effort to seek damages. Because the company was not operating with a proper securities license it’s also quite possible that they will be unable to continue their operations in the United States as well as several other international locations.
When you are considering an investment in cryptocurrency or having your currency managed for investment is important to consider the validity of a company and its structure. If you are starting to see that there are levels of membership, ongoing referrals and an overall lack of publication on a company, this could represent a risky choice for your investment.
Asking the right questions such as whether a company is properly registered for the trade of securities can also help to make sure that they aren’t forcibly shut down in a hurry for operating illegally and that your money can remain safe in their hands.