Pig Butchering Scams — Red Flags

Romance-linked investment fraud: how scammers build trust before draining savings.

Last updated: 2026-07-02

The pig butchering playbook

Scammers meet victims on dating apps, social media, or wrong-number texts. Over weeks they introduce a "guaranteed" crypto or forex opportunity.

Victims see fake profits on a fraudulent dashboard. When they try to withdraw, fees and taxes are demanded until funds are gone.

Frequently asked questions

Can I recover pig butchering losses?: Recovery is difficult. Report to IC3 and the FTC immediately. Beware "recovery scammers" who claim they can get money back for an upfront fee.