Warning signs of a recovery scam

Be suspicious if someone…

1. 1
   Contacts you firstThey message or call you about your loss, sometimes claiming to be police, a government agency, an exchange or a law firm.
2. 2
   Promises resultsGuaranteed recovery, a success percentage, or money back 'within 72 hours'.
3. 3
   Wants payment upfront in crypto or gift cardsOr a wire transfer to an individual or an overseas company.
4. 4
   Asks for your recovery phrase or private keysNo legitimate service needs them. Anyone who has your recovery phrase controls your wallet.
5. 5
   Can't be verifiedNo registered company you can look up, no named team, no official phone number or company email, or reviews that look fake.
6. 6
   Wants a fee before doing anythingGenuine recovery companies that work on a success fee don't need your money first. Upfront 'tracing', 'unlock' or 'legal' fees are a classic sign.
7. 7
   Claims special 'hacking' toolsNobody can 'hack back' a blockchain or reverse a transaction for a fee.