Is 'Crypto Justice Advocates' asking for a 'network validation fee' a new scam after losing my funds?

asked 38d ago12 views126 answers
0

Hi everyone, I'm absolutely desperate here. Back in October, I fell for a crypto investment scam, lost nearly 8k euro. It was devastating, wiped out my emergency fund. I reported it to An Garda Síochána but honestly, didn't hold out much hope. Then, out of the blue last week, I got an email from a company called 'Crypto Justice Advocates'. They said they track scam wallets and had identified my lost funds. They sounded really professional, even mentioned specific transaction details I'd given the police.

They're saying to recover my money, I need to pay a 'network validation fee' of about 600 euro. They claim it's to verify my ownership on the blockchain before they can initiate the transfer. They even sent me a fancy looking document explaining it. My partner thinks it's another scam, but a part of me, a very hopeful part, thinks maybe, just maybe, it's real. Has anyone dealt with these guys or anything similar? Is this 'network validation fee' a legitimate thing for crypto recovery?

126 Answers

47

James, I am so sorry this is happening to you. This is a classic recovery scam tactic, 100%. No legitimate recovery service, whether it's for crypto or traditional funds, will ever ask you for an upfront 'network validation fee' or any similar payment to *access* your own funds. They might ask for a retainer for their *services* but that's after a proper consultation and legal agreement, and never framed as a fee for the network itself or to 'validate' your ownership. Think about it logically: if they've tracked your funds and can prove ownership, they've already done the 'validation' part. This fee is just another way to extract more money from you while you're vulnerable.

The fact they mentioned specific transaction details is concerning, but not surprising. Scammers often share victim lists. It's how these recovery scams find their targets – they buy or trade details of people who've already been scammed. Please, please do not pay them anything. Report them to An Garda Síochána again, and maybe even Action Fraud if you want to cast a wider net, though you're in Ireland. They're just preying on your desperation. Stay strong.

Lily du Plessis · Durban, South Africaanswered 38d ago
35

Oh god, James, this is giving me flashbacks. I went through something similar last year after losing money on a fake investment platform. A company called 'Global Asset Recovery' reached out, sounding super official, telling me they could get my money back. They wanted an 'administrative processing fee' first. I was so desperate, I paid it. Then they wanted a 'tax clearance fee'. Paid that too, thinking it was the last hurdle. In total, I paid them almost 1500 euros, all just gone, on top of the original scam. It's just a second layer of theft. Don't fall for it like I did.

Marie Meyer · Hannover, Germanyanswered 38d ago
28

Absolutely not, James. Your partner is right. This is a scam. Full stop. No legitimate entity, especially not one that claims to track crypto, would ask for a 'network validation fee'. It's not a real thing in crypto recovery. These 'recovery firms' are almost always just the same scammers, or people who bought your data from the original scammers. They know you're vulnerable and desperate to get your money back. Please don't give them another cent. You'll just be throwing good money after bad. Cut contact immediately.

Sophie Sullivan · Waterford, Irelandanswered 38d ago
22

Ugh, this makes my blood boil. These 'recovery' people are just vultures. They prey on people who are already down and out. 'Network validation fee' is just made-up jargon to sound official and technical. It's not how blockchain works, and it's certainly not how recovery works. If they could get your money back, they'd do it and take a percentage *after* it's returned to you, not demand upfront payments. It's a massive red flag. Don't engage with them, just block and report.

Emma Dlamini · East London, South Africaanswered 38d ago
19

Oh James, my heart goes out to you. I'm afraid this is 100% a recovery scam. I lost quite a bit in a similar situation a couple of years ago. After the initial investment scam, I was contacted by 'Claims Justice' – they also had details of my original loss. They asked for a 'due diligence fee' and then later a 'tax clearance fee'. I paid them about 2k euros because I was so convinced. They even sent me fake screenshots of my funds 'in escrow'. It was all lies. I felt so stupid afterwards, like I'd been scammed twice. Please learn from my terrible mistake and don't pay them.

Lotte Bos · Amsterdam, Netherlandsanswered 38d ago
15

Yeah, sounds like a textbook advance-fee scam, but with a crypto twist. 'Network validation fee' is just fancy words for 'give us more of your money'. Legit recovery outfits, the rare ones that actually exist and aren't sharks, don't ask for weird made-up fees upfront. They'd work on contingency, or a clear legal fee structure for their *actual* work, not some technical nonsense. Your partner's right, trust your gut. It's a second scam.

Harry Davies · Sheffield, United Kingdomanswered 38d ago
12

Nope. Big nope. Any 'recovery' service asking for an upfront fee, especially with some obscure technical-sounding name like 'network validation fee,' is a scam. Period. They're just trying to squeeze more money out of you. The fact they have your details means either the original scammers sold your info, or they're the same people with a new name. It's a common tactic. You won't see your money back, and you'll just be out another 600 euro. Block them.

Brian Lopez · New York, USAanswered 38d ago
10

I really feel for you, James. I fell for this exact trick last year. After losing almost 10k USD in a crypto scam, a company called 'Digital Asset Recovery Experts' contacted me. They had my transaction IDs and everything. They promised they could retrieve my funds but needed a 'blockchain reconciliation fee' first, then a 'KYC verification fee.' I was so desperate, I paid them around 1500 USD in total. They even had a fancy portal showing my 'recovered' funds, but I could never withdraw them. It was all fake. Please, don't make the same mistake I did. These are just criminals preying on victims.

Yusuf Al Nahyan · Ajman, UAEanswered 38d ago
7

Definitely a scam, James. I got caught in one of these myself. Lost a decent chunk to a fake forex broker, then got contacted by a 'recovery firm' called 'Funds Recovery Group'. They wanted an 'insurance bond fee' before they could release my 'recovered' funds. Luckily, a friend talked me out of it just in time. The red flag is always the upfront payment for something that sounds vaguely official but isn't. No legit recovery outfit guarantees recovery and demands money before you see anything. Report them and move on, as hard as that is.

Logan Anderson · Ottawa, Canadaanswered 38d ago
3

Oh man, James, I'm so sorry this is happening. That's absolutely heartbreaking. But please, don't let them trick you again. 'Network validation fee' is total hogwash. It's not a real thing. It's just a way to milk more money from you. These recovery scams often target people who've already been scammed because they know you're vulnerable and hoping for a miracle. Think about it: if they *really* had your money, why wouldn't they just take their 600 euro from the 8k they're supposedly recovering for you? Because they don't have your 8k. They just want your 600. It's a cruel trick.

James O'Neill · Dublin, Irelandanswered 38d ago
8

Oh no, this sounds like a textbook recovery scam. If you lost money to a crypto scam, you generally *don't* get contacted out of the blue by a company claiming they can recover it. They often use details from your original report to seem legitimate. A 'network validation fee' is not a real thing in the context of recovering stolen crypto. The scammers are just trying to get more money from you. Please do not send them any more funds. Report this new attempt to An Garda Síochána too, and maybe also to the FCA if you're in the UK, or your local financial regulator.

Grace O'Neill · Waterford, Irelandanswered 38d ago
5

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. It's completely understandable that you'd feel hopeful when someone contacts you about getting your money back. That's a natural reaction after such a terrible experience. Please be very careful. The person who contacted you might be exploiting your situation. These 'recovery' fees are almost always another scam. Keep your guard up, and perhaps discuss this with your partner again – you two can support each other through this doubt.

Khalid Al Hashemi · Dubai, UAEanswered 38d ago
6

Hmm, sounds suspicious, tbh. Why would they have your details already if they are a legitimate recovery service? And this 'network validation fee'… never heard of that. Usually, if you have to pay upfront for a recovery, it's a red flag. I’d be very wary. Maybe check if 'Crypto Justice Advocates' is mentioned anywhere on the BBB or if Action Fraud has any warnings about them. Trust your partner on this one.

Daan Smit · Almere, Netherlandsanswered 38d ago
4

It's wonderful that you're trying to find out more before acting. Your instinct to question this is a good sign. Losing money is incredibly tough, and the hope of getting it back is so strong. Many scams prey on that hope. It’s wise to be cautious with any upfront fees, especially for crypto recovery. Talk it over more with your partner; it sounds like they have a good head on their shoulders. Stay safe!

Eva Visser · Amsterdam, Netherlandsanswered 38d ago
10

STOP. Do not send them a cent. This is a classic double-scam. They are playing on your desperation. They got your details from the police report or maybe even from the original scammer list. There is NO such thing as a 'network validation fee' for crypto recovery. It’s a made-up charge. These people, along with groups like Funds Recovery Group or Wealth Recovery International, are all the same bunch of thieves. They will take your 600 euro and disappear.

Jules Leroy · Lyon, Franceanswered 38d ago
7

I've been there. Lost a significant amount to a fake trading platform last year. After I reported it, I got contacted by a similar 'recovery' outfit. They asked for fees upfront too. I almost paid it, but I held back. Turns out, they were just scammers looking for round two. The only thing that helps is reporting it and accepting it's gone, or maybe consulting a *real* lawyer specializing in financial fraud, but even that's a long shot. Never pay upfront fees for recovery.

Xin Wong · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 38d ago
8

This is a known scam variant. They are called 'recovery scammers'. They monitor police reports or public records of fraud victims. They use the details you provided to the authorities to gain your trust, then they ask for an upfront fee. This 'network validation fee' is entirely fabricated. They are preying on vulnerable people. Do not engage further. Report them to the authorities if you can identify who they are, but do not send them any money.

Mia Meyer · Dresden, Germanyanswered 38d ago
5

I agree with the skepticism here. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds like a name made up to sound official. If they had truly recovered your funds, they wouldn't need you to pay a fee *before* they could send it. The money would just be sent back, maybe minus a legitimate, *agreed-upon* commission *after* the fact. This 'validation fee' is a huge red flag. I'd tell you to ignore them completely.

Jun Ng · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 38d ago
6

I am in a similar boat. Fell for a phishing scam on Facebook, lost my savings. Someone contacted me about recovering it, asked for a fee. I paid 300 euro. They vanished. It broke me for months. I feel so stupid. I wish I had listened to my gut. Please, please don't make the same mistake I did. That fee is not real. They are taking advantage of our pain.

Emma Petit · Marseille, Franceanswered 38d ago
7

This is a well-documented predatory tactic. Recovery room scams are rampant in the crypto space. The fee structure is designed to extract more funds from victims who are already distressed. Legitimate recovery operations, if they exist and are successful (which is rare), typically operate on a success-fee basis, deducting their percentage *after* the funds have been demonstrably returned to the victim's wallet, not demanding upfront payment for 'validation'. Check the FCA or ASIC's websites for warnings about such recovery fraud.

Saoirse Burke · Waterford, Irelandanswered 38d ago
9

WARNING: DO NOT PAY. This is a sophisticated scam targeting fraud victims. They might have obtained your details from the police or from data breaches. The 'network validation fee' is a complete fabrication to get you to pay again. They are not recovering anything. They are just another layer of scammers. If you want to report them, use the official channels provided by your local police or financial authorities. Do not give them any more money.

Hassan Khan · Ajman, UAEanswered 38d ago
5

I got contacted by someone similar last year after losing money on a fake forex platform. They said they were from 'Global Recovery Services' or something like that and wanted an 'admin fee' to release my funds. I was so tempted, I really was. My wife said no way, and she was right. It was a scam. They just wanted another bite at the cherry. It's awful how they prey on people when they're feeling so low. Sorry you're going through this.

Mees Bos · The Hague, Netherlandsanswered 38d ago
6

Yeah, this happened to me too. Lost like 5k to a ponzi scheme. A few months later, someone from 'Crypto Resolution' emailed me. Said they'd found my stolen coins and just needed a small fee to 'unfreeze' them. I was so desperate I almost fell for it. My mate talked me out of it. Said it sounded too good to be true. Thank god he did. These people are scum.

Sem Janssen · Rotterdam, Netherlandsanswered 38d ago
8

As someone who deals with blockchain forensics, I can definitively say that a 'network validation fee' for recovery is not a legitimate concept. The blockchain is public and immutable; verification of ownership doesn't require a fee paid to a third party. These recovery operations are almost universally scams. They profit by charging victims for services they cannot, or will not, provide. Report them to the authorities, but do not send them any money.

James Kelly · Limerick, Irelandanswered 38d ago
9

Red flag! Red flag! Red flag! Any service asking for money *upfront* to recover stolen crypto is a scam. They are using your despair against you. They got your details from the police or perhaps they bought them from the original scammers. There is no such thing as a 'network validation fee.' Do not pay. Do not reply. Block them. The only real reporting channel is official law enforcement and possibly a specialized cybercrime unit if available in your area.

Stefan Hoffmann · Leipzig, Germanyanswered 38d ago
5

I had a similar experience after being scammed by a fake NFT marketplace. I received an email from a company claiming they could retrieve my funds, but they required a 'processing fee' first. I was very tempted, especially after losing so much, but my gut told me to research them. I found multiple warnings online linking them to other scams. It's a cruel trick they play, using your hope against you. Please be very careful and trust your partner's instincts.

Noah Ouellet · Toronto, Canadaanswered 38d ago
7

This is a classic recovery scam, often run by the same people who perpetrate the original fraud or by specialized scam rings. They monitor news of fraud reports or buy victim data. The 'network validation fee' is a complete fabrication. Think about it logically: if they could recover your funds, why wouldn't they just take their cut *after* the funds are returned to you? The answer is they can't recover anything and just want more money. Report this new attempt to your local police.

Grace Quinn · Belfast, Irelandanswered 38d ago
6

Ah, yes, the recovery scam. Heard this one many times. They sound so convincing, right? With the details and everything. But that fee is the hook. I lost a bit of cash last year to one of these 'recovery specialists'. Paid them 500 quid. Never heard from them again. It’s a brutal lesson. The best thing you can do is report this new contact to An Garda Síochána, even if it feels like a long shot again.

Michael Bauer · Stuttgart, Germanyanswered 37d ago
8

This is a recovery room scam, plain and simple. They often get victim information from leaked police reports or data brokers. The 'network validation fee' is a fiction designed to extract more money. A legitimate recovery process, if possible, would not involve upfront fees like this. They might charge a percentage *after* successful recovery, but demanding payment beforehand for a nebulous 'validation' is a hallmark of a scam. Consider reporting this to the CFTC if you are in the US.

Lily Davies · Leeds, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
7

I get this. It's so hard to let go of that hope. When I lost money to a crypto rug pull, I was contacted by a company offering recovery services. They sounded so legitimate. They asked for a 'legal processing fee'. I almost paid it, but I remembered reading about these scams on forums like this. I double-checked their website, and it looked professional but had zero real contact info besides a generic email. Always verify their credentials independently. Contacting the BBB or your country's financial regulator is a good start.

Louis Martin · Montpellier, Franceanswered 37d ago
5

Oh, absolutely a scam. 'Crypto Justice Advocates,' 'Funds Recovery Group,' 'Wealth Recovery International' — they all use the same playbook. They prey on victims' hope. The professional look and mentioning transaction details? That's just them scraping info from police reports or the initial scam details you might have shared. The 'network validation fee' is total nonsense. There's no such thing for recovery. Reporting to An Garda Síochána was the right step, but unfortunately, the odds of getting money back from these types of scams are very slim. Always be wary of anyone promising easy recovery.

Mia Bauer · Hamburg, Germanyanswered 37d ago
3

Oh no, that sounds utterly awful. I'm so sorry you're going through this, especially after already losing so much. It's completely understandable why you'd cling to any sliver of hope. That 'network validation fee' sounds like a classic red flag, though. Scammers often create these fake fees to get more money from you. If you want to explore legitimate avenues, you could try reporting it to Action Fraud in the UK, or if you're in the EU, look up your national financial authority. They might not recover the money directly, but they track these scams.

Isla Wood · Edinburgh, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
6

STOP. Do NOT send them a cent. This is a classic recovery scam, a second wave after the initial fraud. They are sophisticated and will use whatever information they have about your situation to gain your trust. The 'network validation fee' is a fabricated cost. Legitimate recovery operations, if they even exist and are worth anything, do not ask for upfront fees like this. They might take a percentage *after* successful recovery, but never before. This 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds like a particularly nasty outfit. Get them blocked and ignore all further contact. Your partner is right.

Logan Roy · Edmonton, Canadaanswered 37d ago
4

This is happening to me too. Exactly the same thing. 'Crypto Justice Advocates.' They contacted me after I reported a loss of about 5k to the local police here in Ireland. They mentioned my lost funds and a 'network validation fee'. I was so hopeful for a second, thinking maybe my luck would change. My wife told me no way, but it's hard when you're desperate. It's just heartbreaking to think there are people like this. Did they mention a company called 'Claims Justice' to you? They seemed to work together.

Jack Byrne · Limerick, Irelandanswered 37d ago
5

This pattern is distressingly common. Once you've reported a crypto scam, especially one involving known entities or transaction hashes, scammers monitor those reports (or have ways of accessing information related to them) to initiate a 'recovery' scam. The 'network validation fee' is a fabrication. Blockchain transactions are immutable and don't require a 'validation fee' for ownership proof in this context. Genuine recovery services are exceedingly rare and usually operate on a contingency basis, taking a cut only *after* funds are returned, not upfront. Report 'Crypto Justice Advocates' to the BBB and your local financial regulator.

Sophie Becker · Hamburg, Germanyanswered 37d ago
5

Mate, run a mile. This is the oldest trick in the book for crypto scams. They find victims who have already lost money and hit them again. They sound legit because they *want* you to think they are. They'll have gotten details from somewhere, maybe the police report leak, maybe even the original scammer. There's no such thing as a 'network validation fee' to get your crypto back. It’s a pure fabrication to extract more cash. Don't fall for it. It’s like these guys are just waiting for you to get scammed once to pounce.

Sophie Visser · Utrecht, Netherlandsanswered 37d ago
4

From a blockchain forensics perspective, the idea of a 'network validation fee' for personal fund recovery is unfounded. Blockchain networks validate transactions based on consensus mechanisms and computational power, not individual ownership verification fees submitted post-scam. If these entities claim to recover funds, they are likely either part of the original scam or a separate entity exploiting your loss. You reported it to the Gardaí, which is good. For proactive tracking, consider looking into services or bodies that specialize in blockchain analytics, though direct recovery is extremely difficult. The CFTC might have resources on reporting.

Thabo Ndlovu · Cape Town, South Africaanswered 37d ago
3

I got hit with something similar about a year ago after losing a fair chunk to a fake forex platform. They called themselves 'Global Asset Recovery' or some such rubbish. Said I needed to pay a 'legal processing fee' to get my money back. It sounded so official. My husband was furious, told me to ignore it. Thankfully, I listened to him. It's a second scam, plain and simple. They are vultures. What really helped me move past the loss was getting involved in a support group for fraud victims. It sounds cliché, but talking to others who *get it* makes a huge difference.

Charlotte Anderson · Ottawa, Canadaanswered 37d ago
3

This is absolutely heartbreaking. I lost money last year too, not crypto, but a fake 'inheritance' scam. They wanted an 'admin fee' upfront. Thankfully, my mum talked me out of it, bless her. It’s so hard to know who to trust when you’re feeling so vulnerable. They play on that hope, don’t they? That little voice saying ‘what if?’. I did report mine to Action Fraud, and they sent me info on how to spot these follow-up scams. They said to never pay upfront fees for recovery.

Grace Brown · Manchester, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
5

OMG, are you serious? 'Crypto Justice Advocates'? They contacted me too! About three weeks ago. I lost about A$10k to some fake trading bot last year. They sent me the same email, mentioned the police report I filed. Even quoted a specific wallet address I gave them. I almost sent them the 'verification fee' because I'm still kicking myself over the loss. My mate, who works in IT, basically laughed me out of the pub when I told him. Said it's a known scam tactic. So glad I didn't send them anything. Always check with someone tech-savvy if you can.

Jack Brown · Perth, Australiaanswered 37d ago
5

This is a classic bait-and-switch scam, often called a 'recovery scam.' The entities that contact you post-loss are almost always scammers themselves. They get your details from the dark web, compromised data from the initial scam, or sometimes even information leaks from reporting agencies (though reputable agencies are usually secure). The 'network validation fee' is a fictional charge designed to extract more money. Never pay upfront fees for recovery. Look into reporting them to the BBB (Better Business Bureau) and your local police, even if it feels futile. They build profiles of these scam operations.

Amelia Hughes · Nottingham, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
4

This exact scenario happened to me. They called themselves 'Global Recovery Solutions' and demanded a 'processing fee' after I lost money in an investment scam last year. They had details of my initial loss, which freaked me out. Thankfully, my bank, CIBC, has a fraud department that I contacted. They confirmed it was a scam and warned me about these recovery operations. They specifically mentioned that legitimate recovery efforts almost never require upfront fees like that. Always, always check with your bank's fraud team if you're unsure.

Emma Gagnon · Ottawa, Canadaanswered 37d ago
5

What you're describing is a well-documented type of fraud. The 'Crypto Justice Advocates' are not legitimate. They operate by impersonating recovery firms. The 'network validation fee' is a fabricated cost. Their methodology relies on exploiting the victim's desperation and the perceived complexity of blockchain technology. Think about it: if they could recover funds so easily with a simple fee, wouldn't they be rich already? Legitimate cyber-forensics firms exist, but they are transparent about their methods and fees, and do not promise guaranteed returns. Report them to the FCA if you are in the UK.

Louis Dubois · Nantes, Franceanswered 37d ago
3

Ah, je comprends tout à fait. C'est le pire coup après avoir déjà perdu de l'argent. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' - cela ressemble à une arnaque de récupération classique. Ils utilisent des détails que vous avez donnés à la police pour paraître crédibles. Il n'y a pas de 'frais de validation de réseau' légitimes pour récupérer des cryptos. C'est une invention pour vous faire payer plus. Je vous conseille de ne rien envoyer. Si vous voulez faire quelque chose, signalez-les à la police ou à une organisation comme l'AMF en France, mais ne leur donnez pas plus d'argent.

Xin Lau · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 37d ago
3

Wow, this sounds exactly like what happened to my cousin last year! She lost a bunch of money to a crypto scam, and then got contacted by a company claiming they could recover it. They also wanted an upfront fee, like a 'legal processing charge'. She was so tempted, but her brother convinced her it was another scam. She ended up reporting it to the Singapore Police Force, and they gave her some good advice about identifying these follow-up scams. It's grim how these people operate, preying on the vulnerable.

Hannah Thompson · Sheffield, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
5

This is incredibly common. The scammer's goal is to get you to pay them again. They may have obtained your details through various means – perhaps the initial scammer sold your contact information, or there was a data breach. The 'network validation fee' is a fictitious charge. Legitimate blockchain analytics firms or recovery specialists (who are rare and expensive) would typically operate on a success-fee basis *after* recovery, and their services are complex, not a simple 'fee'. Report this activity to ASIC in Australia if you're there, or your national financial regulator.

Saoirse Smith · Waterford, Irelandanswered 37d ago
4

Oh no, that sounds absolutely gutting. I'm so sorry you're dealing with this again. It's completely understandable to feel hopeful, but yeah, that 'network validation fee' is a massive red flag. These recovery scams are designed to look professional and use details from your initial report to gain trust. My advice? Block them and ignore them. If you want to report it, I'd go through the official channels like An Garda Síochána again, or maybe check the Irish government's consumer protection website for advice on reporting scams. Don't give them another penny.

Rachel Tan · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 37d ago
4

I've seen this too. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds like a typical name for these fake recovery outfits. They leverage the victim's distress and the technical jargon of crypto to create a veneer of legitimacy. The 'network validation fee' is a fabricated cost. Blockchain verification is automated and doesn't involve a personal fee for recovery purposes. If you're in Singapore, you can report these entities to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) or the police. They maintain lists of unregulated entities and scam warnings.

Lukas Weber · Dresden, Germanyanswered 37d ago
3

That is so tough, I can only imagine how you feel. It's completely natural to want your money back and to latch onto any possibility. But that 'network validation fee' sounds very much like a classic scam tactic. They often use details that you might have given to the police to seem legitimate. I would be extremely cautious. If you need to report it, maybe try checking out a site like Citizens Advice in the UK, they have good resources on dealing with scams and who to report them to. They're usually very clear that you shouldn't pay upfront fees.

Omar Ahmed · Sharjah, UAEanswered 37d ago
4

This happened to my neighbour, Barry. He lost about £4k on some dodgy stock thing last year. Then this company, 'Secure Asset Recovery UK', emails him saying they'd found his money and just needed a 'compliance fee' of £500. He nearly fell for it, but thankfully his daughter, who works in finance, told him it was rubbish. It's a second scam. The police might not get your money back, but reporting these recovery scams helps them track the criminals. He reported it to Action Fraud, and they were quite helpful.

Edward Thompson · Edinburgh, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
4

Ah, the classic 'recovery fee' scam. This is a well-worn path for these fraudsters. They prey on the desperation that comes after losing money. Crypto Justice Advocates? Never heard of them, and tbh, that's a huge red flag. Legitimate recovery services, if they even exist in this space (and most don't), don't ask for upfront fees like this. They'd take a cut *after* successful recovery. The 'network validation fee' is pure fiction. Don't send them a cent.

Aoife Burke · Cork, Irelandanswered 37d ago
3

Oh no, that sounds absolutely dreadful. Losing money like that is one thing, but then being targeted again when you're at your lowest... it's heartbreaking. I can totally see why you'd grasp at any hope. That 'network validation fee' sounds really suspect, though. I'm so sorry you're going through this again. Keep your chin up, and please be careful.

Louise Michel · Bordeaux, Franceanswered 37d ago
5

DO NOT PAY THAT FEE. Seriously. This is a textbook sequel scam. They find out you were scammed, then pose as 'recovery specialists' to get more money from you. The 'network validation fee' is nonsense. There's no such thing. Report this 'Crypto Justice Advocates' to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) scam watch, and also report them to the platform where you received the email, if possible. Don't let them steal another euro.

Ava White · Adelaide, Australiaanswered 37d ago
4

I know that feeling, the gnawing hope when an email like that lands. I lost a similar amount to a forex scam a few years back. They tried the same thing – 'advance fee' for recovery. Told me it was for legal processing. It's a complete lie. The only thing you can do is report it to the authorities, like you did. The Gardaí might not get the money back, but it helps build a case. Block these new scammers and don't engage.

Ibrahim Iqbal · Al Ain, UAEanswered 37d ago
5

Listen, I understand the desperation, really. But 'Crypto Justice Advocates'? That sounds like a made-up name to sound official. They got details about your case from the police report you filed? That means the scammers are likely the same group or are working with them to re-victimise you. A network validation fee is not a real concept in crypto recovery. It's a predator asking for 'help' to finish the job. Please, do not pay.

Arthur Durand · Toulouse, Franceanswered 37d ago
6

This is a common follow-on scam. Once you've reported a loss to the authorities, your details can unfortunately enter a secondary market for scammers. The 'Crypto Justice Advocates' are almost certainly not legitimate. They've likely obtained your contact information and the details of your previous loss from a data leak or directly from the initial scam group. The 'network validation fee' is a fabrication designed to extract more funds. For actual, albeit rare, recovery efforts, look into specialist blockchain forensic firms, but be extremely wary and *never* pay upfront fees. Report them to Action Fraud.

Liam Ryan · Limerick, Irelandanswered 37d ago
3

Oh, that's just awful. It's so unfair that people who have already been hurt are targeted like this. I really hope you didn't send them any money. It's completely understandable to want your funds back and to get hopeful, but that fee sounds like a classic red flag. Please be careful and trust your partner on this one. Sending you strength.

Olivia Martin · Canberra, Australiaanswered 37d ago
5

This scenario screams 'advance-fee fraud'. The 'Crypto Justice Advocates' are almost certainly a scam. They're leveraging the emotional distress and slim hope you have after losing your money. Legitimate law enforcement or forensic recovery services don't operate like this. They certainly don't ask for 'network validation fees'. These fees are entirely fabricated. If you want to report them, the UK's Action Fraud is the correct channel, though they rarely recover funds directly. The key takeaway here is: if it sounds too good to be true (getting your lost crypto back by paying a small fee), it is.

Charlie Jones · Glasgow, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
3

Jeez, that's a rough one. Going through that initial scam is bad enough, but to get hit again? That's just evil. I'd trust your partner's gut feeling here, honestly. That 'network validation fee' sounds like a made-up cost to get more cash off you. It's a really common tactic after people lose crypto. Just ignore them and block them, I reckon. Hope you're doing okay otherwise.

Liam Burke · Galway, Irelandanswered 37d ago
4

Hmm, 'Crypto Justice Advocates'? Doesn't ring any bells in the legitimate recovery space. And asking for a fee *before* recovery? That's a huge warning sign. Most genuine outfits, if they even offer such services (which are often very difficult and expensive), work on a contingency basis – a percentage of what they actually recover. This 'network validation fee' sounds like a way for them to scam you out of that 600 euro upfront. Did you check their website? Do they have verifiable addresses or credentials? Probably not.

Sara Al Hashemi · Al Ain, UAEanswered 37d ago
4

I’m in a similar boat. Lost about 5k last year to one of those fake trading platforms. Reported it, got nowhere. Then I got an email from someone claiming they could recover it, asking for a 'processing fee'. It’s a total scam. They are just trying to get more money. I’m so sick of this happening. I wish I knew who to trust. I’m still trying to figure out how to get my life back on track after the first loss.

Daniel Ryan · Belfast, Irelandanswered 37d ago
4

Yeah, that 'network validation fee' is a total fabrication. It's a common trick. They create a fake sense of legitimacy around the recovery process. What you should *actually* do is report this new entity to the same authorities you reported the first scam to. In France, you can report to the Police Judiciaire or online via the platform THESEE. Make sure you mention they contacted you *after* you filed the initial report. That might be useful information for them.

Adam Laurent · Bordeaux, Franceanswered 37d ago
4

My first reaction was: big red flag. They contacted YOU? After you lost money? And they want money upfront? That's not how recovery works, usually. Some firms might take a retainer, but a 'network validation fee' sounds made up. Especially if they can't provide concrete proof of how it works and why it's necessary. I'd be very, very skeptical. Did they have reviews? Did you check the BBB?

Steven Davis · San Diego, USAanswered 37d ago
3

Oh god, that sounds like my worst nightmare. I lost a bunch last year too, thankfully less than you, but still. I got contacted by one of those 'recovery' companies, too. They wanted a 'legal fee'. I almost paid it, my husband had to physically stop me. Turns out they were just another scam. It's a brutal second wave of attack. Stay strong, and please don't send them any money.

Charlotte Anderson · Montreal, Canadaanswered 37d ago
5

This happened to my uncle in Dublin. He lost about 10 grand on a fake crypto site. Then a company called 'Funds Recovery Group' contacted him. They asked for an upfront fee to 'unlock' his funds. He paid them 1k. Guess what? His funds never came back, and that company disappeared. They're all the same playbook, trying to get more money from victims. Report them, but don't expect miracles.

Ciara Ryan · Galway, Irelandanswered 37d ago
4

Ugh, that's so rough. It’s like they sniff out vulnerability. That 'network validation fee' sounds completely made up. I wouldn’t trust it as far as I could throw it. If you’re looking for legitimate reporting channels, check out the FCA’s website in the UK if you suspect they are operating there, or similar financial regulators in Ireland. They have sections for reporting scams and unauthorized firms. Don't give them any more money, please.

Olivia Harris · Edinburgh, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
5

No, no, no. This is a classic 'pig butchering' follow-up scam. The initial scammer or their associates often have a list of victims. They then pose as recovery specialists. A 'network validation fee' is 100% a fabrication. It's a made-up cost to get you to send them money. Always be wary of anyone offering to recover lost crypto, especially if they ask for upfront payment. Report them to the relevant financial authorities like the FCA or ASIC, and definitely don't send them any more cash.

Adam Simon · Montpellier, Franceanswered 37d ago
4

Mate, I fell for a similar thing last year after losing money to a dodgy investment platform. These guys, 'Wealth Recovery International' they called themselves, asked for an 'admin fee'. It was about 500 quid. Paid it. Poof. Gone. Never heard from them again. Turns out they were just another scam outfit. The 'network validation fee' is just another way to drain your account. You've been warned.

Mason Lavoie · Victoria, Canadaanswered 37d ago
5

This is infuriating. I too was contacted by a fake recovery outfit after losing funds. They went by the name 'Claims Justice' and demanded a 'legal processing fee'. It's a well-known scam tactic. They target recent victims who are still reeling from their losses. The details they mentioned about your transactions might have come from the initial scam or data scraped from the dark web. Never pay upfront fees for recovery. Report them to the BBB or relevant consumer protection agency in your jurisdiction.

Yi Chan · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 37d ago
3

Oh, that sounds incredibly stressful, and I'm so sorry you're going through this again. It's completely understandable that you'd cling to any glimmer of hope. But please, please be careful. That fee sounds very suspicious. Trust your instincts and your partner. There are sadly many scammers out there who prey on people who have already lost money. Don't let them take advantage of your situation. Sending good vibes your way.

Noah de Jong · Utrecht, Netherlandsanswered 37d ago
5

This is a textbook recovery scam. The 'network validation fee' is a fabrication designed to extract more money from victims. Real recovery firms, if they exist at all and are not themselves scams, don't operate this way. They usually take a percentage *after* funds are recovered. Reporting it again to An Garda Síochána is good, but don't send them another cent. The email likely got your details from the initial scam report or a data leak.

Layla Sheikh · Dubai, UAEanswered 37d ago
4

Oh no, that sounds incredibly stressful. Losing money like that is bad enough, but then getting emails that offer hope only to potentially ask for more money... it's just cruel. Your partner is right to be wary. That 'validation fee' sounds like a huge red flag. I'm so sorry you're going through this. Keep your guard up, it's so hard but so important.

Grace Khumalo · Cape Town, South Africaanswered 37d ago
6

NEVER pay this fee. This is a classic secondary scam. The first scammer took your money, and now a 'recovery' scammer is trying to get more. They will promise the moon, ask for fees, and then disappear. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds like a made-up name. If you want to report scams, use official channels like Action Fraud in the UK or your local police cybercrime unit. Do not engage further with these people.

Arthur Michel · Lyon, Franceanswered 37d ago
4

I can only imagine how you must be feeling. It's completely understandable to grasp at any straw of hope when you've lost so much. But like your partner said, that fee sounds very suspicious. There are so many scams out there, and unfortunately, recovery scams are common. I hope you can find a way to get your money back, but please be extremely cautious about who you trust.

Xin Tay · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 37d ago
7

Been there. The hope is the worst part, isn't it? They play on that. I lost $15k to a fake trading platform last year. Then I got emails like yours. 'Recovery specialists'. They wanted a 'tech fee' and a 'legal fee'. Total scam. I reported them to the FTC, but tbh, never saw a cent back. Best thing you can do is block them and try to move on. It sucks, I know.

Jessica Allen · Seattle, USAanswered 37d ago
5

Hold on a second. 'Crypto Justice Advocates'? Sounds like something a marketing intern cooked up. And a 'network validation fee' for crypto recovery? That doesn't track with how blockchain works, nor how legitimate recovery services (which are rare anyway) operate. They typically work on contingency or a percentage of *successful* recovery, not upfront fees for a 'validation'. I'd treat this with extreme skepticism.

David Allen · Atlanta, USAanswered 37d ago
6

This pattern is extremely common. The initial investment scam is bad enough, but the subsequent recovery scam preys on the victim's desperation. A 'network validation fee' is not a standard procedure in crypto asset recovery. Legitimate firms, such as those you might find listed by regulatory bodies like the FCA or CFTC (though direct recovery is difficult), would not ask for upfront fees for this purpose. They often operate on a success-based commission structure.

Andreas Schroder · Cologne, Germanyanswered 37d ago
5

Definitely a scam. I got a similar email after losing money on a Forex platform. They called themselves 'Global Asset Recovery' and wanted an 'administrative fee'. Total rubbish. They mentioned transaction IDs too, which they probably scraped from public blockchain data or your initial report. Don't pay them anything. Report them to your local police and maybe the BBB if you're in North America.

Jonathan Wong · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 37d ago
4

My gut screams scam. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds like a name designed to inspire trust but it's likely meaningless. And a 'network validation fee'? Never heard of such a thing in legitimate crypto recovery. Usually, if there's any fee structure, it's a percentage *after* funds are returned, and only if the recovery is successful. This sounds like they're just trying to get another bite at your wallet.

Charlotte Gagne · Edmonton, Canadaanswered 37d ago
5

This is a classic follow-on scam. The initial fraud creates a pool of victims who are then targeted by 'recovery specialists.' The 'network validation fee' is a fabricated cost. True blockchain validation doesn't require such a fee from a third party claiming to recover funds. Report these individuals to An Garda Síochána again, emphasizing the new contact, and perhaps check if your national regulator (like the Canadian Securities Administrators) offers guidance on recovery scams.

Jacob MacDonald · Vancouver, Canadaanswered 37d ago
6

Ugh, I fell for something similar. Lost about R20k on a fake crypto mining site last year. Then got an email from 'Asset Recovery Pros' asking for a 'trace fee'. Told my wife, she freaked out. Turns out it was just another scammer. Blocked them immediately. It's heartbreaking how they prey on people when they're already down. So sorry you're dealing with this.

Noah Smit · Nijmegen, Netherlandsanswered 37d ago
4

Oh dear, that sounds really tough. It’s completely natural to want your money back and to be hopeful when someone contacts you with that possibility. But please, please be careful. That 'network validation fee' sounds like a classic scam tactic. They create a fake obstacle that requires payment to overcome. I really hope you don't send them any more money. There are resources like the FCA that warn about these types of recovery scams.

Sophie Visser · The Hague, Netherlandsanswered 37d ago
7

This is exactly what happened to me. Lost $10k to a phishing site, then got contacted by a group claiming they could recover it for an 'advance fee'. My dad told me, 'Jess, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.' He was right. They wanted $1k for 'legal processing'. Total scam. I felt so stupid afterwards. Just block them and try to focus on healing. Reporting them is the best you can do.

Lauren Jones · Boston, USAanswered 37d ago
5

My initial thought is 'highly suspect.' The mention of specific transaction details could simply mean they pulled them from the public blockchain explorer using the wallet addresses you might have shared with the police or even the original scammers. A 'network validation fee' isn't a recognized term for recovery processes. I'd suggest checking if they are listed anywhere on the BBB or if there are complaints filed against them. Treat this with extreme caution.

Grace Tay · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 37d ago
6

This is a very common type of scam. They operate by targeting individuals who have already been victimized. The 'network validation fee' is a fabricated charge. Legitimate recovery efforts, while difficult, do not typically involve upfront fees for validation. Reporting entities like Action Fraud (UK) or the CFTC (US) can provide information on known scams, but direct recovery by third parties asking for fees like this is almost always fraudulent.

Naledi Smit · Cape Town, South Africaanswered 37d ago
5

DO NOT PAY. This is a secondary scam targeting victims. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' is likely a fabricated name. There is no legitimate 'network validation fee' for crypto recovery. Recovery specialists, if they are legitimate at all, usually charge a percentage of recovered funds *after* successful recovery. This is a tactic to get more money from you. Report them to your local police and block all communication.

Felix Schulz · Berlin, Germanyanswered 37d ago
5

This is a classic recovery scam. They find people who have lost money and try to scam them again. The 'network validation fee' is a made-up charge. Don't send them any money. If you want to report scams, use official channels. For example, in Germany, you can report to the police cybercrime unit (Polizei). They will never ask for upfront fees like this.

Sem van Dijk · Almere, Netherlandsanswered 37d ago
4

Oh wow, that sounds like such a tough situation. It's completely understandable that you'd be hopeful, especially after such a huge loss. But please, be super careful. That fee sounds very suspicious, like a hook to get more money from you. I'm really sorry you're going through this. Keep your wits about you!

Yi Tay · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 37d ago
6

I lost a significant amount last year to a fake ICO and then got hit with similar 'recovery' emails. They wanted an 'escrow fee' first. It was demoralizing. I spoke to someone from the BBB who basically said that most 'recovery' services are scams themselves, or require fees upfront. The best advice they gave was to check regulatory bodies like the FCA or ASIC first to see if any firm claiming to help is even legitimate. Don't pay.

Emma Michel · Marseille, Franceanswered 37d ago
5

This sounds like a classic 'recovery scam' tactic. They prey on the desperation of victims. I've seen this pattern repeat numerous times. They'll ask for a small fee, then a larger one, and so on, with no funds ever being recovered. The 'network validation fee' is not a legitimate concept in crypto recovery. If you want to report scams in the UAE, the UAE police have digital channels for reporting, check their official website.

Ibrahim Al Qasimi · Ajman, UAEanswered 37d ago
6

Oh man, that email hit me hard. I lost a chunk of savings last year to one of those fake investment platforms. Got an email a few months later from a company claiming they could recover it, but they wanted a 'processing fee' first. Same vibe, professional and detailed. My gut screamed scam, and thankfully I listened. They didn't get another cent from me. So sorry you're going through this again.

William Cote · Ottawa, Canadaanswered 37d ago
4

Hold up. 'Crypto Justice Advocates'? Sounds like they're trying way too hard to sound legit. And a 'network validation fee'? That’s not a thing. This is textbook follow-on scamming. They probably got your details from the same place the first scammers did. Don't send them money. Seriously.

Ashley Moore · New York, USAanswered 37d ago
5

I recognize this. I lost about £5k back in 2022, and a few months later got similar contact. They wanted an 'admin fee' to release 'frozen scam funds'. I was so tempted, I was really hurting. But my friend, who's a lawyer, told me unequivocally it was a scam. If it sounds too good to be true, especially after you've lost money, it is. Stay strong.

Oliver Evans · Brighton, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
3

I'm really sorry to hear you're in this situation, it's incredibly tough to lose money like that, and even tougher when you think there's a glimmer of hope only for it to be another trick. Please be very careful. The fees they are asking for are a massive red flag. Sending you support.

Paul Klein · Dresden, Germanyanswered 37d ago
6

This is a well-documented scam method. Recovery scams frequently contact victims who have already reported losses. The 'network validation fee' is pure fiction. Legitimate recovery efforts, if any are even possible, would typically involve legal processes or law enforcement cooperation, not upfront fees for abstract 'validation'. Report this new contact to the authorities who are investigating the original scam, if possible.

Sara Al Maktoum · Ras Al Khaimah, UAEanswered 37d ago
5

I have seen similar schemes. They often get victim data from compromised databases or by monitoring public reports. The idea of a 'network validation fee' is not standard practice for any legitimate crypto recovery service or blockchain operation. My advice is to ignore them and block their communication. If you are in the Netherlands and want to report this, the Politie often has specific channels for online fraud.

Sophie van Dijk · The Hague, Netherlandsanswered 37d ago
5

Bloody hell, this happened to me too! Lost about $10k AUD and then got an email from 'Global Recovery Services' wanting a 'transfer fee'. I was so gutted, I actually considered it. My sister talked me out of it, thank god. Said it was just the scammers trying to get more money. That 600 euro sounds like their next grab. Don't do it.

Olivia Nguyen · Perth, Australiaanswered 37d ago
4

This is a typical fraud pattern. Scammers who execute the initial investment scam often sell victim data to other scammers specializing in 'recovery'. This 'network validation fee' is a fabrication designed to extract more money. No legitimate entity would require such a fee. For reporting, consider the South African Cybercrime Unit, they handle these cases.

Joshua Naidoo · Durban, South Africaanswered 37d ago
4

Oh god, another one? That sounds exactly like what happened to my cousin in Galway. Lost a few grand, then got contacted by some 'fund recovery' outfit asking for money upfront. It’s brutal. They definitely prey on people when they're at their lowest. I'd be very, very wary of this 'Crypto Justice Advocates'.

Niamh Quinn · Dublin, Irelandanswered 37d ago
5

This is a known scam playbook. The criminals who ran the initial scam often sell your contact information to other criminals who pose as recovery specialists. The 'network validation fee' is a completely fabricated charge. There is no such thing. If you need to report financial fraud in the US, you can use the CFTC or the FBI's IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center). Do NOT pay.

Jason Jones · New York, USAanswered 37d ago
5

I fell for something very similar. Lost $6k last year. Then got an email from 'Secure Recovery Solutions' asking for $500 to 'release' my funds. I sent it. Idiot. They never sent anything back, just disappeared. Then they tried to ask for more money for 'taxes'. So yeah, that 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds exactly like them. Don't pay them a cent.

William Harris · Darwin, Australiaanswered 37d ago
5

Absolument pas! C'est une arnaque, encore une. Je connais quelqu'un qui a perdu de l'argent avec une fausse plateforme et a reçu le même genre d'email. Ils demandaient des frais pour 'débloquer les fonds'. C'est une tactique courante pour vous soutirer plus d'argent après la première escroquerie. En France, vous pouvez signaler ce type d'arnaque à la plateforme Thémis de TRACFIN.

Alice Richard · Bordeaux, Franceanswered 37d ago
4

I'm sorry, but this is unfortunately very common. After you lose funds to a scam, your details might be sold to 'recovery scammers'. They use professional-sounding language and claim to have tracked your money. The 'network validation fee' is a made-up charge. Do not pay. You can report this to the German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) or the Verbraucherzentrale for consumer advice.

David Hoffmann · Dusseldorf, Germanyanswered 37d ago
3

That sounds like a really tough situation, I'm sorry you're going through this again. It's completely understandable to want to believe in any chance of getting your money back. However, the 'network validation fee' is a big warning sign. It's a common tactic for recovery scams to ask for fees upfront. Sending positive thoughts your way.

Liam Burke · Limerick, Irelandanswered 37d ago
5

This is a classic trap. The initial scammer may have sold your data, or the initial scam was designed to funnel you into this second scam. The concept of a 'network validation fee' is not a real thing in the context of recovering stolen cryptocurrency. If such recovery were possible, it would involve law enforcement or specialized forensic firms, not an upfront fee. In France, you can report this to cybermalveillance.gouv.fr.

Camille Moreau · Lyon, Franceanswered 37d ago
6

Oh no, please don't send them any money! This sounds exactly like a recovery scam. I fell for one last year, lost about £3000. Got an email from a similar company claiming they could get it back but needed a 'legal processing fee' first. It was a lie. They took my fee and vanished. Reporting it to Action Fraud is your best bet in the UK.

Grace Wood · Brighton, United Kingdomanswered 37d ago
3

I feel for you, losing money is awful, and the hope of getting it back is powerful. But yeah, that sounds like another scam. They get your info and try to fleece you again. Hang in there, and please don't pay that fee.

Thomas Weber · Dresden, Germanyanswered 37d ago
5

This is a textbook recovery scam. They find victims of previous scams, often through leaked data, and promise to recover funds for an upfront fee. The 'network validation fee' is entirely fabricated. There is no such thing. If you have lost funds to a scam in Australia, you can report it to Scamwatch, but be aware that direct recovery of stolen crypto is extremely difficult.

Chloe Petit · Lille, Franceanswered 37d ago
3

Oh wow, that sounds like a nightmare. I'm sorry you went through that. And this 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds *exactly* like the follow-on scams that prey on victims. The 'network validation fee' is a classic red flag. There's no such legitimate fee for recovering crypto. Blockchains don't work like that. They're trying to get another 600 euro out of you. Seriously, don't send them anything. There are legitimate places to report, like Action Fraud in the UK or the CFTC in the US if the scam involved US entities, but paying fees for recovery is almost always a scam itself. Never pay upfront for recovery services.

Jia Chua · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 37d ago
5

Hang in there. I lost 12k last year to a forex scam, thought I'd never see a cent again. They promised recovery too, of course. When they asked for 'processing fees,' I nearly fell for it. My gut screamed 'no' and thank goodness I listened. That validation fee? It's the oldest trick in the book for these scammers. They *know* you're desperate and hoping. They sound professional because they study their marks. Don't let them get another euro. I'm still trying to recover, but I learned that lesson hard.

Naledi Pretorius · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 37d ago
2

This screams scam, tbh. 'Crypto Justice Advocates'? Never heard of them. And a 'network validation fee' for crypto recovery? That's not a thing. If they could actually recover your funds, they'd take a percentage *after* the funds were back in your wallet, not demand money upfront for some made-up verification. It's designed to hook you with hope. I'd trust your partner on this one. Did they give any details on *how* they track these wallets? Sounds vague.

Jacob MacDonald · Quebec City, Canadaanswered 37d ago
4

Yeah, this sounds super dodgy. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds like it was literally made up yesterday. My mate lost money on some fake NFT project and got similar emails. They wanted an 'admin fee' to release his 'winnings'. Total nonsense. If they have the tech to track scam wallets and recover funds, why would they need a small fee from you? They'd be billionaires. It's a scam, plain and simple. Don't send them a cent.

Liam Pretorius · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 37d ago
5

I was in your shoes. Lost a significant amount to a romance scam that morphed into an investment scam. They drain you, then these 'recovery' people pop up. The email sounded so convincing, even mentioned my bank, Nedbank. They wanted an 'advance fee' for something called 'jurisdictional transfer'. I almost sent it. My sister talked me out of it. She said, 'If it sounds too good to be true...' You know the rest. These recovery scammers are the lowest of the low. Stay strong. Reporting is the right step, but paying for recovery? No.

Jules Moreau · Paris, Franceanswered 37d ago
3

Ugh, this is awful. I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' rings no bells, and the 'network validation fee' is a huge red flag. Legitimate recovery services, if they even exist and are effective, operate on contingency – they take a cut *after* you get your money back. Asking for money upfront, especially for something as nebulous as 'network validation,' is a classic scam tactic. Block them and move on. Don't engage further. The BBB might have warnings about groups like this.

Sara Al Marri · Ras Al Khaimah, UAEanswered 36d ago
4

This is a very common type of scam after you've already lost money. They call it 'advance-fee fraud'. These 'recovery' companies are usually run by the same people or their associates who ran the original scam. They prey on the hope that people have after losing their savings. I lost R50,000 to a fake investment scheme on Telegram last year. Got the same kind of emails. They wanted a 'legal processing fee'. I ignored it. It hurts like hell to lose the money, but paying more just digs the hole deeper. Report them if you can, but don't pay.

Yusuf Al Nahyan · Abu Dhabi, UAEanswered 36d ago
6

This sounds incredibly suspect. The concept of a 'network validation fee' in the context of crypto recovery is not a recognized or legitimate practice. Blockchain transactions are validated by network participants (miners or validators) according to protocol rules, not by individual users paying a fee to a third-party 'advocate' for verification. Such fees are typically associated with the transaction costs themselves (gas fees), not a recovery process. Groups like Wealth Recovery International or Funds Recovery Group are known scam operations that use similar tactics. Always be wary of any entity demanding upfront payment for services they claim will recover lost funds.

Amelia Walker · Perth, Australiaanswered 36d ago
5

I got hit by a pig butchering scam last year and lost $10k. It was my entire savings. I felt so stupid. A few months later, I got an email from a group called 'Global Crypto Recovery' (or something like that). They said they'd found the wallet address where my funds were frozen and I just needed to pay a $500 'tech fee' to release them. I almost did it. I was crying, my husband was yelling at me. Thank God I didn't. It's another scam. They're vultures picking at a fresh wound. I reported it to the IC3, but haven't heard anything back. Still hurts.

Rachel Jackson · Denver, USAanswered 36d ago
4

My friend, also in Lyon, fell for something *very* similar last year. Lost about 5,000 euros. Then this 'recovery' company contacted her, wanted an 'administrative fee' to unlock her 'frozen' investment. She paid it. Surprise, surprise: no money ever came back. She was devastated, not just by the initial loss, but by being scammed again. These people are truly despicable. The 'network validation fee' is pure fiction. Please, please don't send them any more money. Report them to the police and maybe the FCA if they mention anything related to UK services.

Louise Dubois · Lyon, Franceanswered 36d ago
3

Hey, that's rough. It’s completely understandable why you’d want to believe this, especially after losing so much. Hope is a powerful thing. But yeah, that 'network validation fee' sounds like a massive red flag. I’ve heard stories of similar scams where they ask for upfront fees. Maybe check with the actual police or a trusted crypto security firm (not one that cold-emails you!) before doing anything? Sometimes the police fraud units have specific advice on these recovery scams.

Lucas Wilson · Brisbane, Australiaanswered 36d ago
5

This is a known type of scam, sometimes called a 'recovery scam' or 'advance fee scam'. They find people who have already been defrauded and then pretend to offer a solution for a fee. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' sounds completely made up. There is no such thing as a legitimate 'network validation fee' to recover lost cryptocurrency. The scammer is just trying to get more money from you. If you want to report them, you can try Action Fraud in the UK, or the relevant authority in Ireland. Do NOT pay them anything.

Mohammed Ahmed · Ajman, UAEanswered 36d ago
6

NO. Absolutely not. This is a second-stage scam. They actively look for people who have reported losses to police or online forums. The 'network validation fee' is pure fabrication. They might even send you fake documents that look official. I saw this happen to my uncle who lost money on a fake trading platform. They wanted a 'transfer fee'. He almost paid it, but I convinced him it was another scam. He didn't get his money back, but he didn't lose more. Trust your gut and your partner. Report this new scam attempt to the police too.

Sophie Mokoena · Bloemfontein, South Africaanswered 36d ago
4

Oh man, that is brutal. I lost about $5k last year to a fake mining operation. Felt like a total idiot for weeks. Then I got an email from something called 'Asset Recovery Solutions' asking for a 'reconstruction fee'. Said they needed it to 'rebuild' my corrupted wallet access. Total BS. It's a second scam targeting victims. They sound legit because they have your stolen transaction details. Don't send them money. Reporting it is good, but don't expect miracles from police. You're stronger than you think for surviving the first hit.

Samuel Lim · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 36d ago
5

Reading this makes my blood boil. That's exactly what happened to me after I lost money on a fake stock tip. A company called 'Claims Justice' contacted me, said they specialized in recovering funds from fraudulent schemes. They wanted an 'investigation fee' upfront. I was so desperate, I almost paid. Thank goodness my brother-in-law, who works in IT security, told me it was a scam. He said the fee is just to get more money from you. He advised me to report it to the BBB and the FCA. They are vultures. Stay strong.

Amelia Fortin · Halifax, Canadaanswered 36d ago
4

This is a classic recovery scam. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' is almost certainly not a real entity, and the 'network validation fee' is a made-up charge designed to extract more money from you. They often get your details from previous scam filings or data breaches. The recovery process for cryptocurrency is complex and usually not guaranteed, and legitimate operators would typically take a percentage of the *recovered* funds, not an upfront fee. If you want to report this new scam attempt, consider contacting Action Fraud or your local police cybercrime unit. Do not send them any money.

Charlotte Brown · Brighton, United Kingdomanswered 36d ago
3

Ugh, I hate these recovery scams. They are the absolute worst. They know you're vulnerable. The fact they mentioned specific transaction details is alarming but they likely got that from the police report you filed, or scraped it somewhere. Never pay upfront fees for crypto recovery. It’s always a scam. If you want to try and recover, the only legit route is through law enforcement and legal channels, which can take ages and often don't succeed, but at least you don't lose more money. I'd block and report.

Yi Lau · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 36d ago
5

This is a textbook advance-fee fraud, a type of recovery scam. 'Crypto Justice Advocates' is a fabricated name, and the 'network validation fee' is a phantom charge. There's no legitimate mechanism in cryptocurrency networks that requires a user to pay such a fee to a third party for fund recovery validation. Their professionalism and mention of specific details are tactics to build false trust. They are preying on your desperation. Report this to the relevant authorities, but under no circumstances should you send them any money. Groups like Funds Recovery Group and Claims Justice operate using these exact same scam principles.

Charlie Smith · Newcastle, Australiaanswered 36d ago

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