A company called 'Global Asset Recovery' wants a 'bank transfer unblocking fee' to get my money back. Scam?
Bonjour everyone. I'm feeling so desperate right now, I don't even know where to start. A few months ago, I fell for one of those investment scams, lost a significant amount, like almost all my savings, to some fake crypto platform. It was a really tough time, and I felt so stupid. I reported it to the police here in Marseille, but tbh, they didn't offer much hope. Said it was very difficult to trace.
Then, out of the blue, I got an email from a company calling themselves 'Global Asset Recovery'. They said they saw my report and specialize in getting funds back from these exact types of scams. They had a lot of details about my original loss, which kinda freaked me out but also made them seem legit. Now, they've been 'working' on it for a few weeks, and today they sent an invoice for a 'bank transfer unblocking fee' – around 2,500 euros – saying my funds are ready to be transferred but this fee is required by the 'international banking system' to release them. It sounds too good to be true, and frankly, I'm terrified of losing even more money. Has anyone else encountered this? Is this just another scam targeting me because they know I'm vulnerable?
240 Answers
Hugo, this is 100% a recovery scam. Seriously, without a shadow of a doubt. The moment they ask for *any* upfront fee for *any* reason – 'unblocking', 'tax', 'legal', 'processing' – it's a scam. They target people who've already been hit because they know you're desperate and might be willing to pay more to get your original funds back. The detail they have about your case usually comes from leaked victim lists, or sometimes the original scammers actually sell your info to these recovery scammers. It's a horrible cycle. Stop all communication with them immediately. Don't engage, don't pay another cent. Just block them.
Oh my god, Hugo, I'm so sorry this is happening to you. It's an awful feeling to be targeted again when you're already down. Please, please don't pay them. What Omar said is spot on. Any legit company, especially one helping you recover stolen money, would *never* ask for an upfront fee. Their payment would come from the recovered funds, usually as a percentage, after the money is back in your account. The fact they have your details is worrying but unfortunately common – it means your information is out there. Stay strong and don't let these horrible people take more from you. Sending you strength from Galway.
Hugo, s'il vous plaît écoutez-nous. This is a very common trick. These are what we call 'recovery scams' – preying on victims of previous frauds. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is just made up. There's no such thing in a legitimate recovery process. Real legal or financial professionals who help with asset recovery work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they succeed, or they charge hourly for investigation, but they would *never* guarantee recovery or ask for a fee to 'unblock' a transfer that isn't even in your control yet. Your money is gone, and unfortunately, these people are just trying to get more from you. Block and report.
Yeah man, this is textbook. I almost fell for something similar after getting burned by a forex scam last year. They called themselves 'Funds Recovery Group' or something generic like that. Sounded super professional, had a fancy website, the whole nine yards. Asked for a 'compliance fee' to process the payout. My gut told me to wait, and a buddy of mine in finance just laughed and told me it's a classic second scam. If they wanted to help you, they'd help you and take a cut *after* you get your money. Not before. Seriously, don't even reply to them.
I can only imagine how awful this feels, Hugo. It's like reliving the whole nightmare. But please know, it's not your fault these vultures are coming after you. They prey on vulnerability. I lost about 8k in a trading scam a couple of years back and got hit with two different recovery scam attempts afterward. One even pretended to be from the FBI IC3! They sent official-looking documents and everything. The main red flag was always the 'advance fee' – for me it was a 'case activation fee' and then a 'tax clearance fee'. It's always some made-up expense. You've done the right thing by asking here first. Don't pay, just cut them off.
As someone who's seen countless cases of these, Hugo, this 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a classic sign of a recovery scam. It's designed to sound official and necessary, leveraging your hope and desperation. Regulators like ASIC (in Australia) and Action Fraud (in the UK) constantly warn about these exact tactics. They'll also often claim to have insider information or special connections to get your funds back quickly. The detailed info they have on your original loss likely came from data brokers who sell victim lists, or as Omar mentioned, from the original scammers themselves. You absolutely should *not* pay this fee. Report them to your local authorities if you haven't already, even if just to add to the intelligence on these groups. Your goal now should be to protect yourself from *further* financial loss.
This is definitely a second scam, Hugo. It's called re-victimisation, and it's unfortunately very common. I've worked on cases where people have paid these 'recovery' firms multiple fees, thinking they're almost at the finish line, only to lose thousands more. They invent new fees constantly: 'tax certificate', 'AML compliance', 'litigation bond', now 'bank transfer unblocking fee'. It never ends. The money is never coming back via these channels. The only people who contact you unsolicited about recovering scam losses are almost certainly scammers themselves. Legit recovery involves lawyers or licensed insolvency practitioners, and they follow strict ethical guidelines, which includes transparent fee structures and absolutely no advance fees for hypothetical releases.
Oh man, Hugo, that's just horrible. I'm so sorry you're going through this again. It takes a real special kind of evil to prey on someone who's already been hurt. Please listen to everyone here. These 'unblocking' or 'release' fees are pure fiction. They're just trying to squeeze more money out of you. My cousin almost got caught by 'Wealth Recovery International' after losing a bunch of money in a fake investment. They promised the moon and asked for a 'due diligence fee'. Luckily, she Googled them and found out they were infamous for being scammers. Your best bet is to block all communication and try to move on. It's hard, but don't let them take more from you.
Ugh, this sounds exactly like what happened to me last year. I lost a good chunk of savings to a crypto platform and then later got an email from 'Refund Police' (lol, the name itself should've been a red flag but I was so desperate). They claimed to have retrieved my funds and just needed a 'final transfer fee' to release them. It was a few hundred euros. I was so excited, so hopeful. I almost paid it, but then my husband talked me down, thank god. He said it smelled like a scam because *real* banks or legal processes don't ask for a fee to *receive* your own money. It's a cruel trick. Don't fall for it like I almost did, Hugo.
Seriously, Hugo? Another one of these. It's infuriating. 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like something a scammer would come up with in 5 minutes. The whole 'international banking system requires this fee' is just made-up nonsense to create a sense of urgency and legitimacy. No legitimate bank or financial institution charges a fee for *receiving* funds, especially not from an 'unblocking' process. If your money was truly recovered and sitting there, it would just be transferred. They're trying to leverage your hope. It's a sad reality, but once money is gone to these types of scams, it's almost impossible to get back. Paying another fee will only dig you deeper. Cut contact, block their emails and numbers, and try to protect your peace of mind now.
Oh, absolutely. This is a classic 'advance fee' scam. They prey on people who've already lost money. 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like a made-up name, and these 'fees' are just another way to steal from you. They probably got your details from the initial scam or a data breach. Never pay any fees to get your own money back; if it were real, they'd deduct it from the recovered amount. Report them to Action Fraud if you're in the UK, or your local equivalent.
Ugh, I know that feeling. I lost about 10k euros to a forex scam last year. After I reported it, I got calls from 'recovery specialists' too. They're vultures. They know you're desperate. The first scam took my savings, and these recovery scams just wanted to take what little I had left. I just blocked them and tried to move on. It hurt like hell, but at least I didn't give them more. Hang in there.
A company that claims to recover money from scams? Sounds fishy. How would they have your details? It's likely they bought them or got them from the original scammers. And an 'unblocking fee'? That's a huge red flag. Legitimate recovery services, if they even exist for this, usually take a percentage of the *recovered* funds, not an upfront fee. I'd be very wary.
I've been through this. Lost a big chunk to a binary options scam. Then these 'recovery agencies' popped up. They're so convincing, aren't they? They sound professional, have case numbers, and talk about legal processes. But it's all a show. They'll ask for more money, and more, until you have nothing left. I learned the hard way. Don't send them a single cent. You've already lost enough. I'm so sorry.
Oh man, been there. After I lost money to a crypto ponzi, I got emails from 'Asset Recovery Solutions' and 'Refund Services UK'. They sounded so official. They wanted an upfront fee for 'legal costs' to get my Bitcoin back. I almost paid it. My wife stopped me. She said, 'If they could get it back, they wouldn't need you to pay them first.' So true. We just cut contact.
This screams 'advance-fee fraud,' a subtype of the original investment scam. The scammers are often the same people or a related group. They track victims who report losses and then offer a 'solution' requiring a fee. 'Global Asset Recovery' is almost certainly not a legitimate entity. For actual asset recovery, look to specialized legal firms or, in some jurisdictions, government bodies. Reporting to your national financial regulator is a good step, but be skeptical of unsolicited offers.
STOP. Do not send them any money. This is a second-stage scam. They know you're vulnerable and looking for your lost money. They'll invent more and more fees: legal fees, processing fees, tax fees, transfer fees. It never ends. My neighbour fell for this. They said they had the money ready, just needed a 'processing fee'. They paid it, then got told there was a 'currency conversion fee'. Lost another $5k. Don't let it happen to you. Anything involving upfront fees for recovery is a scam.
Listen, I work in finance. This 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is bogus. There's no such thing in legitimate international banking. If funds are legitimate, they transfer. If they're flagged, they get held, and the bank will ask for documentation, not a fee from a third party. This 'Global Asset Recovery' is a scammer trying to fleece you again. Do not pay. Block them immediately. Report them to the French financial authorities if you can.
This is a known scam tactic. The recovery room operators often work in tandem with or are the same people running the initial investment fraud. They obtain victim lists (often from compromised police reports or data leaks) and then approach victims claiming they can recover their losses. The 'fees' are perpetual – they'll invent new ones indefinitely. The only *trusted* avenues for recovery often involve complex legal routes or reporting to bodies like the FBI IC3, and they certainly don't require upfront 'unblocking fees'.
Oh, that sounds incredibly stressful, I'm so sorry you're going through this again. It's completely understandable that you'd be hopeful after losing so much. Please be careful. These recovery scams are designed to look like a lifeline, but they're just another trap. It's great you're questioning it. Trust your gut feeling – if it feels too good to be true, it probably is. Sending you strength.
I fell for this exact thing last year. They called themselves 'Funds Recovery Group'. Same story – had details, said my money was ready, just needed a 'processing fee'. Paid $3000. Then they asked for more for 'tax clearance'. I never saw a cent. They vanished. It’s a scam, a second layer of theft. They are the worst kind of people. I’m still trying to recover from the first loss.
My cousin got hit by a similar 'recovery' scam. Lost £5k to a fake trading platform, then 'Wealth Recovery International' contacted him. They wanted £1500 for a 'transfer legalization fee'. He was tempted, but I told him straight up it was another scam. He didn't pay, thank goodness. They're sharks, sniffing out despair. Please, don't send them anything.
Absolutely a scam. The model is simple: identify victims of previous scams (often through shared databases or leaked info) and then perpetrate a 'recovery scam'. The key red flag is the upfront fee. No legitimate entity will charge a fee to release funds they've supposedly recovered for you. If they have recovered anything, they would typically deduct their fees from the recovered amount, or work on a success-fee basis *after* you receive the money. Consider reporting this attempt to the relevant financial authorities in France and possibly the FBI IC3, even if recovery seems unlikely, to help them track these operations.
Yup, I got the same thing after losing money to a fake broker. 'MoneyBack Hero' wanted a fee to 'release' my supposed profits. It's a mirror scam. They know you want your money back, so they pretend to offer it. It’s horrible. I told them to get lost. It felt like a betrayal, honestly. I wish you the best in getting past this.
Don't do it. Seriously. I got caught by a similar outfit, 'Payback Ltd', after a phishing scam took my card details. They promised to get my money back if I paid an 'investigation fee'. It was about a grand. Paid it. Then they said there were legal hurdles and needed another fee. Never saw a dime. They just kept asking for more. It's a total scam.
This 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds identical to scams like 'Refund Police' I've seen advertised. They promise the moon – recovering lost crypto, funds from dissolved companies, etc. The key is always an upfront fee for some fabricated reason. Legitimate recovery operations are rare and usually very expensive, involving actual lawyers and court processes, not an email demanding a 'transfer unblocking fee'. Report this to your local authorities and consider it a lesson learned, unfortunately.
Wow, the audacity. That's rough. They know you're hurting and they just want to rub salt in the wound. This 'unblocking fee' is just another invented charge. If they had your money, they wouldn't need you to pay them to release it. It's like going to the bank to collect a prize and being asked to pay a 'prize collection fee'. Doesn't make sense. Don't fall for it.
It’s a scam, plain and simple. They operate by building a false sense of legitimacy. Having some details about your original loss is common – they often buy or obtain these lists. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a fabrication. Real financial institutions don't operate this way, especially not third-party 'recovery' firms. If you're in the UK, you can report this to Action Fraud. For international issues, consult ASIC or your country's financial conduct authority, but be wary of any unsolicited offers.
So sorry you're dealing with this. It's a terrible situation to be in, losing money and then being targeted again. That 'fee' is definitely a scam. My aunt lost money to a fake lottery last year and got calls from people claiming they could get it back for a 'processing charge'. She didn't pay, thankfully. She said it felt wrong. Always trust that feeling. Sending positive vibes your way.
Yeah, this sounds exactly like a recovery scam. They usually get your contact info from the initial scam or from data breaches. The 'unblocking fee' is a classic move. It's designed to get you to pay again. I saw a similar thing with a company called 'Prime Asset Recovery' – they promised to get back funds from a fake investment. It was all lies. Don't send them anything. Block them and forget about them. It's better to lose the hope than lose more money.
Oh, absolutely another scam. 'Global Asset Recovery'? Sounds like every other fake outfit like 'Payback Ltd' or 'Funds Recovery Group' that preys on victims. They get details of your original report, sometimes from data leaks or even by posing as law enforcement themselves, to gain your trust. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is classic. They invent a fee to 'release' money that was never there to begin with. Don't send a single euro more. The authorities can't recover funds once they're gone, and any legitimate recovery service wouldn't ask for money upfront for fees like this. Report this new outfit to Action Fraud or your local police again, if you can.
Oh no, that sounds incredibly stressful. I'm so sorry you're going through this again. It's completely understandable that you'd feel hopeful when they had details, that's how they hook you. But a 'bank transfer unblocking fee'? That rings alarm bells. It feels like they're just piling on the pressure because they know you're desperate for your money back. Please, please be careful.
Seriously? 'Global Asset Recovery' and an 'unblocking fee'? This is textbook. They know you lost money, they know you're looking to get it back, and they're just inventing new reasons to ask for more cash. It's like when those 'refund' companies contact you after you've had a PPI claim rejected. They promise the moon and then ask for a 'processing fee' which is just another way to steal from you. My gut says run far away from this.
I got contacted by someone very similar after I lost money on a fake trading site last year. Mine was called 'Wealth Recovery International'. They had all my details too. They told me I had to pay a 'tax clearance certificate fee' before my funds could be returned. I paid it. It was like 1,500 dollars. And then... nothing. They just disappeared. They took my recovery fee and vanished. I'm so sorry, I think this is the same thing happening to you.
This happened to me too. The company was called 'MoneyBack Hero'. They said the same thing about needing a fee to 'process' the transfer of my money from a crypto scam I fell for. I was so heartbroken and desperate that I actually paid them about 3,000 pounds. It was my emergency fund, gone again. They never sent anything, and their website is now down. They know how to play on your emotions. It's awful.
Alert! This is a common secondary scam. The first scammer might even sell your details to these 'recovery' companies. They sound legit because they know specific details. The 'fee' is a red flag. No legitimate entity, especially not the government or a bank, would require a victim to pay a fee to unlock their *own* recovered funds. Think about it logically: if they had your money, they could just deduct the fee. They are scammers. Report them to the FBI IC3 if you're in the US, or your national equivalent.
Yeah, that sounds really fishy. Why would a legitimate company need you to pay a fee to *release* funds they supposedly recovered for you? Wouldn't they just deduct it from the recovered amount? It feels like they're just inventing hurdles to get more money out of you. I'd be very, very wary of sending them anything.
I went through something similar a couple of years ago. Lost money to a forex scam, and then a 'recovery' company contacted me. They asked for an upfront 'legal processing fee'. I actually paid it. Idiot, I know. They took the money and ghosted. It was devastating, not just the money, but the feeling of being so stupid. What helped me eventually was talking to a support group for scam victims. They helped me see it wasn't my fault, and importantly, they warned me about these recovery scams. Don't give them another penny. Focus on reporting them and moving on.
Wait — are you serious? A 'bank transfer unblocking fee'? That's exactly what the scammer tried to get me to pay after I got suckered into a fake inheritance scam last year. They even had my cousin's name in the email. It felt so personal, so real. But when they asked for £500 to 'unblock' my non-existent inheritance, I just felt this sinking feeling. I told them to shove it and blocked them. Definitely a scam, I'd say.
Oh mate, I feel for you. Losing money once is bad enough. Having these vultures circle when you're down is just adding insult to injury. I lost a bit to a phishing scam a while back, and while no one contacted me about recovery, I learned later that these 'asset recovery' firms are often just the second act of the scam. They get your details, make you feel hopeful, then bleed you dry with fake fees. Block them and report them. You did the right thing by asking here.
That sounds really tough, I'm sorry you're in this situation. It's a horrible feeling to be targeted again when you're already down. The fact that they're asking for money upfront for a fee like that is a big warning sign. Legitimate recovery efforts usually work on contingency or take their cut *after* the money is recovered, not before. Don't pay them.
SCAM! Repeat, SCAM! They are not recovering anything. They are criminals. They know details because the first scammers sell them or they buy lists of victims. The 'unblocking fee' is pure fabrication. They are trying to get more money from you. DO NOT PAY. If you paid already, consider it lost and report them to your national authority like Action Fraud in the UK, or the police. Do not engage further.
I can relate to that feeling of desperation. When I lost money to an investment scam last year, I felt so lost. A company reached out, claiming they could help. They wanted a 'wire transfer facilitation fee'. It was a few hundred euros. I was so tempted because I just wanted my money back. Thankfully, I remembered reading about these recovery scams online. It's a common tactic. They prey on your hope. Please don't send them any money.
This sounds exactly like the scam my uncle fell for. He lost a lot of money on a fake job offer scam, and then a company contacted him about recovering it. They asked for a 'processing fee' and then an 'international transfer fee'. He paid both. Total lost in recovery fees was about 4,000 dollars. Of course, no money ever came back. These people are bottom feeders. Report them to the authorities and block them. Don't give them another cent.
I too was contacted by a firm, think it was called 'Refund Police', after a terrible crypto scam. They had details about the platform I lost money to – even the fake name they used! They were so convincing. They said I needed to pay a 'compliance fee' before they could release my funds. I nearly did it. My wife, bless her, said, 'If they had the money, why would they need *your* money to release it?' That stopped me cold. I didn't pay. They went quiet. Never heard from them again. Your 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds exactly the same. Trust your gut – it's a scam.
No, no, NO. This is definitely a scam. They are called 'recovery room scams'. They target people who have already been scammed. They get your information and then ask for upfront fees to 'recover' money that was never actually recovered. It's a double scam. The fee they are asking for is just more money being stolen from you. Do not pay it. Your police in Marseille are correct that recovering funds is very difficult.
It's rough when you're in that position, wanting your money back so badly. I think most people would feel hopeful if a company seemed to have details. But that 'unblocking fee' is the classic trick. They're just trying to squeeze more out of you. Please don't fall for it.
I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. It's awful that these companies exist to prey on victims. The fact that they want money *before* you see any returned funds is a massive red flag. Legitimate recovery services usually work on commission and only get paid if they successfully recover your money. They wouldn't ask for an upfront fee like that. Stay strong and don't send them anything.
This is a classic secondary scam, often called a 'recovery scam'. They operate like this: they find out you've been scammed (either through data breaches or sometimes even by the original scammer selling your details), they contact you with 'proof' they can recover your funds (often just regurgitating publicly available info or details you've already shared), and then they invent fees like 'unblocking fees,' 'legal fees,' or 'transfer fees' to extract more money. No legitimate agency or company will ask for an upfront fee to release funds they've supposedly recovered for you. If they had recovered it, they'd simply deduct their legitimate, agreed-upon commission (if any) from the recovered amount. Anything else is a lie. The details they have are likely from the original scam or a data leak. Do not pay. Block them. Report them to the equivalent of the FBI IC3 in your country.
Terrible situation. This sounds exactly like the 'Global Asset Recovery' scam that has been going around. My neighbour had the same experience. They contacted her, knew details about her Bitcoin loss, and then asked for a large fee to 'release' the funds. She paid it. Of course, the money never arrived. They then asked for another 'tax fee'. She realised it was a scam and stopped. She reported it to the South African Police Service, but like you, was told recovery is very hard. Please, for your own sake, do not send them any more money.
Oh, OP, please don't send them a cent more. This is textbook. 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like every other scam outfit like 'Payback Ltd' or 'Funds Recovery Group' that preys on people who have already been victimized. They get your details from the original scam or from dark web lists of victims, then hit you with a 'recovery fee' or 'unblocking fee' right before they vanish. They're not recovering anything; they're just running a second scam.
OMG, I went through something *very* similar. Lost about £10k to a forex scam last year. Felt like such a fool. Then these guys, 'Wealth Recovery International' or something, contacted me. Said they could get it back, but needed a 'legal processing fee'. It was about $3k. My wife told me no way, and thank god I listened. They went silent right after I refused. These 'recovery' companies are just vultures. Stay away!
Absolument pas. C'est une arnaque classique de deuxième chance. Ils vous contactent parce que vous avez déjà perdu de l'argent et que vous êtes désespéré. La 'commission de déblocage' n'existe pas. C'est juste une autre façon de vous soutirer de l'argent. Ne payez rien. Ce n'est pas la police ou une banque qui demande ces frais, c'est ce groupe d'escrocs. Si vous avez été victime, contactez la police judiciaire ou une association agréée, pas ces gens.
Yeah, this smells fishy. I lost a bunch of money to an NFT scam and then got hit up by a company claiming they could recover it. They wanted an 'admin fee' first. I told them if they could recover my money, they could take their fee right off the top from what they recovered. They stopped emailing me real fast. Funny how that works. Don't fall for the advance fee again, friend.
Oh no, that sounds so stressful, especially after already going through the initial loss. I'm really sorry you're in this position. Please be very careful with 'Global Asset Recovery'. It sounds like they might be trying to exploit your situation. Did you report them to Action Fraud or your local police again? Sometimes, even if they can't recover the original funds, reporting new scam attempts helps them track these groups.
Buddy, run. I got dinged by a similar outfit after a phishing scam. They had my name and the exact amount I lost. Said they were from 'Global Recovery Solutions' and needed a 'wire transfer insurance payment' to get my cash back. Sounded legit enough after I'd already lost big, but my buddy who works in finance told me it's a total scam. They just want another payment. Don't do it.
Hello there. This is a very common trap for victims of investment fraud. The recovery scammers often obtain victim details from the initial scam itself, or from data breaches. They will ask for an upfront fee for 'services' like transfer fees, legal costs, or taxes. These fees are entirely fictitious. 'Global Asset Recovery' is almost certainly not a legitimate recovery firm. Report them if you can, but do not pay.
Sounds exactly like the 'MoneyBack Hero' people who contacted my dad last year. He'd lost a good chunk to some fake trading platform. They promised the moon but wanted an 'international compliance fee' first. Thankfully, I saw the red flags and told him to ignore it. These recovery agencies are usually just scammers with a new angle. The fact they had details about your original loss is concerning but also how they hook you.
This is deeply worrying. 'Global Asset Recovery' is likely a phantom operation designed to take advantage of your vulnerability. They prey on the desperation of victims. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a classic maneuver. They might even create fake bank statements or tracking numbers to make it seem real. Please, do not send any money. The only legitimate bodies that might help recover funds are official agencies like the FBI IC3 or Action Fraud, and they don't charge upfront fees for this.
I got contacted by a similar group after a crypto scam. They called themselves 'Asset Recovery Partners'. They wanted a 'client onboarding fee' before they could 'initiate the recovery process'. I asked them for their registration number and where they were regulated. They got really cagey and then suddenly the line went dead. It was enough for me. They're scammers, pure and simple. Be strong, don't pay them.
This is a classic recovery scam. These firms operate by targeting individuals who have already reported being scammed. They often obtain victim information from the same criminal networks that conducted the initial fraud, or from data brokers selling victim lists. The 'unblocking fee' is a fabricated charge designed to extract more money from you. Legitimate asset recovery firms operate on contingency, taking a percentage *after* funds are successfully recovered, not requiring upfront fees for 'unblocking'. If you suspect a scam, report it to the relevant authorities, like the police or financial regulators. In Australia, ASIC is a good place to start.
Marseille police mentioned they've seen this before. 'Global Asset Recovery' isn't a real entity for asset recovery. They are likely the same people, or a related group, that ran the initial scam or other similar scams. They have your details because they were either involved initially or bought your victim profile. Any fee they ask for is just to fund their next operation. Don't trust them. You did the right thing reporting it to the police, but unfortunately, recovering crypto is extremely difficult once it's gone.
This is a well-known scam pattern, often perpetrated by the same criminals or affiliated groups. They know you're vulnerable and desperate. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a fabrication. No legitimate international banking system requires such a fee from a recovery company. If any company asks for an upfront fee to recover money, it's a scam. Always remember that legitimate recovery services typically work on a success fee basis, meaning they only get paid if and when they successfully recover your funds, and usually take a percentage of the recovered amount.
Absolutely, OP, this is a scam. They know your situation because they are either the original scammers or part of a network that targets known victims. The 'unblocking fee' is fake money they invent to get you to pay again. Many victims report these 'recovery' firms to the FBI's IC3, which is the Internet Crime Complaint Center in the US. While they can't always recover the money, filing a report helps track these criminal groups. Don't send them another euro.
I lost a significant sum too, OP, about six months ago. Felt like the world had ended. Then I got an email from a firm calling themselves 'Refund Police' saying they could help get my money back from the same type of platform. They wanted an 'advance fee for international wire transfer'. My gut told me no. I checked them out online and saw they were listed as a scam on a few watchdog sites. Please, please check any recovery company thoroughly. If they ask for money upfront, it's almost always a scam.
As someone who works in international finance compliance, I can tell you this 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is complete nonsense. There's no such thing. These recovery firms are professional fraudsters who operate on the desperation of victims. They likely obtained your contact details and information about your loss from the original scam. A legitimate recovery service would operate on a contingency basis, taking a percentage *after* successful recovery, not demanding upfront fees for imaginary obstacles. Report them to the authorities, such as the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) if you have any Australian links, or Action Fraud in the UK.
Yes, it's a scam. I fell for one too after losing money to a fake trading site. They called themselves 'Global Asset Recovery' too! I paid them €3000 for a 'processing fee'. Never saw a cent back. They disappeared after I paid. The police here in Riyadh said there was nothing they could do. I wish I'd found this forum before. Don't send them money. They are the real thieves.
Oh man, this is exactly what happened to me. Lost a bunch to a forex scam. Then this company, 'Global Asset Recovery,' contacted me. They had all my details. Wanted an 'advance fee for repatriation' of my funds. I was so tempted, felt so stupid for losing the first time, and thought maybe this was my only chance. But I talked to my brother, who's a lawyer, and he said it's a classic scam tactic. They just want you to pay again. Don't do it. It's heartbreaking, I know.
I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's awful to be targeted again after such a horrible experience. Please trust your instincts; if it feels too good to be true, it probably is. These 'recovery' companies are a known problem. The details they have are likely from the original scammer or a data breach. If you want to report them, Action Fraud in the UK is a good place to start, or the FBI's IC3. They don't charge fees for reporting. You've been through enough.
This is a massive red flag. 'Global Asset Recovery' is almost certainly a fraudulent entity. They are likely the same criminals who defrauded you initially, or a secondary scam operation that buys victim data. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a fabricated charge. Legitimate asset recovery agencies work on contingency, taking a percentage *after* funds are recovered, and they don't have access to 'international banking system' secrets to unblock transfers. If you want to report this, consider contacting the relevant national fraud reporting centre. In Ireland, this would be your local Garda Síochána or the national fraud hotline.
Oh hon, that sounds EXACTLY like what happened to me. I lost about $10k to a forex scam last year. Then suddenly, this 'Funds Recovery Group' (which I now know is a scam too, go figure) contacted me saying they could get it back. They also asked for a fee, a 'transfer processing fee' they called it. I was so desperate, I almost paid it. Thank god my husband stepped in and said it felt wrong. Don't send them another cent.
STOP. Do not pay that fee. This is a predator scam. They find victims who have already been scammed and hit them again. 'Global Asset Recovery' is almost certainly a shell company made up to steal more money. The fact they know details about your original scam? They probably bought the info from the original scammers or are connected to them. NEVER pay fees to get your own money back. That's not how legitimate recovery works.
Oh, absolutely a scam. This is a classic double-dip. They know you're hurting and hoping for a miracle. 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like every other fake recovery outfit. The 'unblocking fee' is the dead giveaway. They'll take your 2,500 euros and disappear. If you want to try recovering funds, the legitimate route involves official channels, not these email outfits. In the UK, we have Action Fraud, and in the US, it's the FBI IC3. They don't charge fees upfront for an 'unblocking'.
Echoing what others are saying. This 'Global Asset Recovery' is not legitimate. The recovery industry is rife with scams that mimic legitimate operations. Real asset recovery specialists, if they exist in your jurisdiction and operate legally, usually operate on a contingency basis – meaning they only get paid a percentage *if* they successfully recover your funds. They would not ask for an upfront 'unblocking fee'. Check with your local financial regulatory body, like ASIC in Australia if you were there, or similar bodies elsewhere, for guidance on *actual* recovery options.
My experience is similar. I was contacted by an entity named 'Wealth Recovery International' after I lost money to a Bitcoin scam. They claimed they could recover my losses, but then asked for an upfront 'legal processing fee'. I paid it, thinking it was the only way. Now they are asking for more money for 'tax clearance'. I feel like a fool. Please, do not pay them. I am trying to report them but I don't know if it will help.
This is a very common and nasty scam. They prey on victims' hope. The original scammers often sell your contact details to these 'recovery' firms, or they are the same group. They invent fees like 'bank transfer unblocking fees,' 'compliance fees,' or 'legal fees' to get more money. If your funds were legitimately recoverable, the recovery company would take their cut *after* the funds were returned to you, not demand upfront payment. You're being targeted again.
Seriously, run the other way. This is 100% a scam. They know details about your case because they're either the original scammers or working with them. They create these fake companies like 'Global Asset Recovery' and then invent bogus fees to bleed you dry. There is no such thing as a 'bank transfer unblocking fee' to get your own money back. It's a lie to get more cash. Don't fall for it a second time. It's heartbreaking but true.
I got hit with something very similar. Lost a good chunk to what I thought was an investment advisor. Then 'Payback Ltd' contacted me, saying they could get it back. They also wanted a fee, a 'settlement fee' they called it. I felt sick thinking I'd lost everything, then felt even sicker when I realised I was about to get scammed again. I didn't pay. Haven't seen the money since, but at least I didn't give *them* my savings. You're right to be suspicious.
This is so upsetting to read because it's so familiar. I lost money to a phishing scam, and then an email popped up from 'MoneyBack Hero', claiming they could help. They wanted a fee upfront, called it a 'client onboarding charge'. My spouse told me to wait, to check things out. I Googled them and saw loads of warnings. It was a trap. Please, please don't pay them anything. Your gut feeling is right.
I too have been contacted by these 'asset recovery' people. They claim they can get my money back from an online gambling scam I fell for last year. They asked for a 'verification fee' from me. I told them no. Then they sent me a very official-looking document, supposedly from a 'financial crimes unit', demanding the fee. It looked real but I remembered the police saying that official bodies won't ask for money like that. It's a scare tactic.
This happened to my neighbour. Lost money to an online trading scam. Then got contacted by a company that said they were from 'Refund Police' (which is definitely a scam name, fwiw). They said they needed an upfront fee to release his funds. He paid it. Surprise, surprise – he never saw a penny and 'Refund Police' vanished. He was devastated. Now he just shakes his head whenever I mention investments. Don't pay it.
That 'unblocking fee' is pure fiction. Legitimate financial institutions or law enforcement agencies do not operate this way. If you are in the Netherlands, you can report fraud to the Dutch police or the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM). They might not recover your funds directly, but they can track these scam operations. Never pay money to get your own money back – it’s always a scam. They are trying to exploit your existing loss.
Classic setup. They get your details from the initial scam, or they *are* the initial scam. The detail they have is likely publicly available from your police report, or they bought it. Any request for an upfront fee to release funds is a massive red flag. Seriously, don't send them a cent. I've heard of 'Funds Recovery Group' and 'Wealth Recovery International' doing exactly this. They're all the same scam, different names.
This is exactly how 'Payback Ltd' operated when they contacted me. They promised to recover funds lost to a fake tech investment. They had details about the initial loss, which made me think they were real. Then they hit me with a 'transfer initiation fee'. I paid it, thinking it was the final step. It was the final step alright - right into their pockets. They disappeared after that. I reported it to the authorities here, but it feels like shouting into the void.
I feel for you, I really do. I lost a bit of money early on to a fake forex platform and then got contacted by similar outfits. They all have fancy websites and talk a good game. The key is: no legitimate recovery service will ask you for an upfront fee to release *your* money. They get paid from the recovered amount. This 'Global Asset Recovery' is a scam. Please don't let them take more from you. It's hard, but you have to let go of the hope of getting that original money back from them.
Ugh, this is painful to read. I lost savings too, and the feeling of helplessness is the worst. After I reported it to the police here in Vancouver, I got an email from a company called 'Global Asset Recovery'. They had information... but then they wanted a 'compliance fee'. It sounded so official. I almost paid it, but my sister warned me. She said if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So glad I listened. You are right, it's a scam.
This is a known scam pattern. The details they have about your original loss are likely sourced from dark web marketplaces where scammers sell victim data, or they are affiliated with the original scam group. Companies like 'Global Asset Recovery' are fake entities designed to extract more money. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a fabrication. If you want to report this, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) is a good starting point for US-based scams, and they often cooperate internationally.
Hang in there. It’s a horrible feeling, losing money and then being targeted again. I lost a significant amount to a crypto scam last year and then got an email from a ‘recovery’ firm. They wanted an upfront fee for ‘legal costs’. I was tempted because I felt so desperate. My friend told me to check with Action Fraud in the UK, and they said that recovery scams are rampant and to never pay upfront fees. So, no, don't pay them. You're being scammed again.
I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's a cruel world out there. I had a similar experience after losing money to a fake online store. A company contacted me, offering to recover my funds, but needed a 'processing fee' first. I felt so vulnerable. Thankfully, I spoke to a cousin who works in finance, and he immediately recognized it as a common scam tactic. He advised me to cut all contact. It hurts to lose money, but it hurts even more to lose it again to these vultures.
This is a textbook example of a 'recovery scam'. The initial details they had were likely from your initial police report, which is publicly accessible or obtained through data breaches. They are preying on your hope. Never pay an advance fee to get your own money back – especially from a company you've never heard of before. They are not legitimate recovery specialists; they are just more scammers. You can report this 'Global Asset Recovery' to Action Fraud in the UK, as many of these operations have links there.
Oh goodness, I'm so sorry you're going through this. It sounds incredibly stressful, especially after already losing so much. It's completely understandable why you'd be hopeful when they seemed to have details, but that 'fee' sounds like a massive red flag. You're doing the right thing by asking here before sending any more money. Sending you lots of strength!
Hang on. 'Global Asset Recovery' wanting a 'fee' to unblock a transfer? That screams scam to me. If they had your money, they wouldn't need you to pay more to get it. This is how they get you twice. Don't send them a cent more. Seems like they're just digging a deeper hole for you. You probably lost your money for good, sadly.
This is a classic recovery fraud. The 'details' they had were likely not a sign of legitimacy but confirmation they were targeting someone vulnerable. Reputable recovery firms (and there are very few) do not charge upfront fees like this. They typically work on contingency, taking a percentage *only* after funds are recovered. The 'unblocking fee' is a fabrication. You can report these entities to the FBI's IC3 if they solicited you from or operate within the US, even if you're not a US citizen.
Absolute scam. Do NOT pay this fee. This is a common follow-on scam. They promise to recover your lost funds from the first scam, but they just want another payment from you. They might even fabricate documents or create a fake dashboard to show your money is 'almost there'. The best thing to do is stop all communication. If you're in Germany, you can report this to your local police or the Bundeskriminalamt (BKA).
I wish I could say I was surprised. I lost 10k to a crypto scam last year, felt like a complete idiot. Then got contacted by 'Wealth Recovery International' or some nonsense. They also wanted a fee, this time for 'legal processing'. Almost sent it. My wife thankfully talked me out of it. These people are vultures. They saw your police report, saw you were hurting, and decided to pick you clean.
Yeah, this sounds fishy. Really fishy. Why would they need a fee from you to unblock money they supposedly recovered? Makes no sense. If they were legit, they'd take their cut from the recovered funds, not demand cash upfront for some bureaucratic nonsense. I’d be very, very careful. Probably best to ignore them.
Oh là là, please be careful! This sounds exactly like the kind of scam my uncle fell for last year. He lost money to some online trading thing, then got contacted by a 'recovery specialist' who asked for an 'administrative fee'. He paid it, and of course, never saw a cent. It's heartbreaking. You did so well to question it. Perhaps reporting it to the French financial crimes unit might be an option?
I was in your shoes. Lost nearly £15k to a fake Forex platform last year. Reported it, got the same 'difficult to trace' response. Then, someone from 'Funds Recovery Group' emailed me. Said they had a 90% success rate. Wanted a 'compliance fee' upfront. I nearly paid it, felt so desperate. My daughter stopped me. She told me to research them. Turns out they were a total scam. Blocked them. So glad I didn't send money.
Sending you hugs. It's devastating to lose savings, and even worse to be targeted again. That 'unblocking fee' is a huge red flag. Real recovery specialists, if they exist and are legit, don't operate like that. They know you're vulnerable and are trying to squeeze more out of you. You're smart for not jumping on it. Maybe look into reporting them to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online?
This happened to my neighbor. She lost a bunch to one of those bogus lottery scams. Then 'Payback Ltd' contacted her. Claimed they could get her money back but needed a 'processing fee' first. She paid like $3,000. Never heard from them again. Total loss. She was devastated. Said they sounded so professional on the phone, too. Horrible people.
Oh no, I feel this so much. Lost my emergency fund last year to an investment scam, thought my life was over. Then I got an email from 'MoneyBack Hero' offering recovery services. They wanted an 'international transfer fee'. I almost did it, but my husband saw the email and was like, 'Honey, that's not how this works.' He checked them out, and they were listed as a scam. Dodged a bullet there. So glad you're being cautious!
Absolutely not. This is a well-known scam technique. They find out you've been scammed (often through data leaks or by cross-referencing police reports if they can access them) and then offer a 'solution'. The 'fee' is just another way to steal from you. The police are unlikely to recover your funds, and these 'recovery firms' definitely won't. If you are in Germany, you can report this to BaFin (German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority), though they primarily regulate, they might have insights.
This is a trap. A huge, flashing red trap. They prey on the despair of victims. That 'unblocking fee' is pure fiction, designed to get another payment out of you. No legitimate entity asks for a fee to release funds they've already recovered for you. They take their cut *after* the money is in your account. Don't send anything. Block them immediately. Your police in Marseille might not be able to do much, but perhaps the national financial crime unit could be alerted?
Ugh, that sounds awful. I lost a good chunk to a phishing scam a while back and felt like such a fool. Then someone from 'Refund Police' contacted me. Wanted a 'court fee' to get my money back. Thank god I didn't pay. Turns out they're just another scam outfit. These recovery scammers are the worst kind. They know you're hurting and try to hurt you more. Stay strong!
I fell for something similar. Lost about S$5k to a fake trading app. A week later, 'Global Asset Recovery' popped up in my inbox. They claimed they had traced my funds and needed a $1,000 'transfer facilitation fee'. I was desperate and paid it. Big mistake. They vanished. Complete ghost. They had all my details, same as you. It was heartbreaking. Never again.
Yes, this is unfortunately a very common scam. The initial details they had were likely obtained from data brokers or even directly from your initial report if it was mishandled. The 'unblocking fee' is a fabrication. They are essentially running a second scam on you. Do not pay. If you are in France, you can report this to TRACFIN (Traitement du Renseignement et Action contre les Middles Financiers), which is part of the French finance ministry.
Oh heck no, please don't send them money! That sounds exactly like a scam. They know you're vulnerable after losing money, and they're trying to scam you again. That 'unblocking fee' is pure nonsense. If they had your money, they wouldn't need you to pay them more. I'd just ignore them and block their emails. So sorry you're dealing with this.
Terrible situation to be in, I'm really sorry. That sounds like a classic recovery scam. They find victims who have already lost money and promise to get it back, but then they demand upfront fees. It's just another way to steal from you. Don't pay it. You're doing the right thing by being suspicious. If you want to report it, the UK's Action Fraud is a good place to start, even if you're not in the UK.
My gut feeling is screaming 'scam'. Why would they need an 'unblocking fee' from you? If they recovered your funds, they'd take their cut from that. This sounds like a setup to get more money. It's possible they got your contact details from the police report or a data leak. Don't send them anything. Seriously. You're better off cutting your losses and moving on than throwing more money into that hole.
Yes, this is a classic second scam. They prey on victims of the first scam. The details they have likely came from the original scam platform or a data breach associated with it. No legitimate recovery service would ask for an upfront fee like this. They might take a percentage of recovered funds, but *never* a 'fee' to unblock.
Report this to Action Fraud in the UK, or if you're in France, you can report it to the cybercrime unit there, though they may direct you to the police like they did before. The main thing is, do *not* send them any money. They are 'Global Asset Recovery' in name only. Likely tied to the original fraudsters or another group like 'Wealth Recovery International' or 'Funds Recovery Group'. Stay safe.
Oh, I'm so sorry you're going through this. It sounds like a nightmare. Losing money is awful, and then to be targeted again? That's just cruel. I haven't experienced this exact thing, but my heart goes out to you. That 'bank transfer unblocking fee' sounds really suspicious, especially after the police already said it's hard to get money back. Please be super careful. Sending you lots of strength.
Hang on, 'Global Asset Recovery' asking for an 'unblocking fee'? Red flag city, my friend. If they had your money, why would they need you to pay to unblock it? Sounds like they want to unblock *more* money from *your* bank account.
It's a common tactic. They bait you with the idea of getting your original money back, and then hit you with a fake fee. They might even send fake bank statements or documents. The details they have on you? Probably scraped from the original scam site.
Seriously, stop communicating with them. Don't send a cent. If you're in Canada, you can file a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). They might not recover your lost funds, but they track this stuff.
This smells rotten, to be honest. 'Global Asset Recovery' wanting an 'unblocking fee' is textbook. They know you're desperate and hoping for a miracle, so they manufacture one and then charge you for the magic wand.
Did they provide any paperwork for this fee? Any sort of official-looking document? Scammers love to create fake invoices and bank letters. The fact that they had details about your original loss is worrying, but unfortunately, data from old scams gets traded around.
Please, please don't pay. They're not recovering anything; they're just trying to fleece you again. You can report this to your local Garda station, but honestly, they might just tell you to ignore it. The most effective thing is to block them.
Oh love, that sounds absolutely awful. I can only imagine how you must be feeling right now, especially after going through the initial loss. It's completely understandable why you'd be hoping for a way back.
But that 'unblocking fee' does sound really suspect. When I lost money a few years back (not crypto, but stocks), the recovery company I eventually used took their cut *after* the money was back in my account. They never asked for money upfront. It's really important to check if they're registered with any financial authorities, though these recovery scams often operate just outside the regulated world. Keep your chin up, you're right to be cautious.
Wow, that's a double whammy. Been there, felt that sting of being scammed and then the deep shame. For me, it was a fake Forex platform a few years ago. Lost about S$40k. Took me months to even admit it to my wife.
Then, like you, I got contacted by a 'recovery' firm. 'Funds Recovery Group', I think? They wanted an upfront 'legal processing fee'. Nuh-uh.
Look, the fact they know your details? That's just them buying lists of scam victims. They're not heroes; they're vultures. The police might not be able to help much with the initial loss, but do report this *new* fee request to them. Don't pay. Block them. You survived the first hit, you can survive this.
Oh no, that's awful. I can totally relate to the feeling of being stupid and vulnerable after losing money. I lost a chunk in a fake investment scheme too, maybe a year and a half ago. Felt like such a fool.
And then someone contacted me about getting it back. Sounded legit, had all my details, even mentioned the fake broker's name. They wanted a 'transfer fee' upfront.
I almost paid it, but my sister talked me out of it. She said, 'If it was real, they wouldn't need *your* money to send *your* money.' That stuck with me. These recovery scammers are the worst kind. They're like sharks smelling blood. You did the right thing asking here. Don't send them a single euro.
This is a very common follow-up scam. They harvest details from the original scam or data breaches, then contact you claiming they can recover your funds for an upfront fee. It's a nasty trick, and it's especially cruel because you're already hurting.
I had a similar experience after a phishing scam where my bank details were compromised. A company called 'Payback Ltd' (ironic, eh?) contacted me, claiming they could freeze the fraudulent transactions for a fee. They even sent what looked like a plausible invoice.
Thankfully, I checked with my actual bank first, who confirmed no such fee existed and that it was a scam attempt. Always, always verify any 'fees' or 'requests' directly with the institutions involved, not through the supposed intermediary. Don't pay 'Global Asset Recovery'. They are not recovering anything for you.
Oh for goodness sake, another one? I swear these people have no conscience. That 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a huge red flag. If they've recovered your money, it should be ready to transfer. Why would you need to pay *them* to unblock *your* money? It doesn't add up.
They probably got your details from that original scam platform, or maybe they bought a list. They know you're vulnerable and hoping for a miracle. Please don't fall for it. You've been through enough. You can report this to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in Ireland, though like the police, they might not be able to do much. Block them, don't reply.
This sounds incredibly stressful, and I'm really sorry you're in this situation. It's terrible that scammers target people who have already been victimized. That 'unblocking fee' sounds very suspicious.
When I was looking into recovery options after a bad investment, I spoke with a few firms. Some were legit and worked on commission, but they never, ever asked for money upfront for 'fees'. They were very clear about how their commission worked – a percentage of what they recovered, paid *after* the funds were returned.
My advice? If you can, try contacting ASIC in Australia if the platform had any dealings there, or a similar regulator in your region. They might not be able to get your money back directly, but they can flag these recovery scams. Stay strong, and trust your gut – it's usually right when something feels off.
This is exactly what happened to me last year. Lost about $15k to a fake online trading thing. Felt like such an idiot. Then some outfit called 'Refund Police' emailed me, saying they'd tracked my funds. They asked for a $3k 'processing fee' to release it.
I was so tempted, I really was. My husband told me to wait, though. We checked online, and 'Refund Police' popped up on a few scam alert sites. Thank god we didn't pay. They just wanted another payday.
So yeah, the 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like the same scam. Don't pay them. They are not recovering anything. They're just trying to scam you again.
Bloody hell, a 'bank transfer unblocking fee'? That's just daylight robbery. It's absolutely a scam. They know you lost money, they know you want it back, and they're just inventing a new hurdle to jump over to take more of your cash.
I got hit by something similar after a fake lottery win years ago. They wanted a 'customs duty' to release my prize money. Sounded so official. But nope. Total scam.
Tell them where to shove it. Don't give them any more of your money. If you want to report it, I guess you could try the local police again, but honestly, just blocking them is the best bet.
I'm so sorry, this is a horrible situation to be in. I fell for a romance scam a few years back, and the shame was overwhelming. I lost about £8,000. Then, I was contacted by someone claiming to be a fraud investigator who said they could help get my money back.
They asked for an upfront 'legal fee'. I actually paid it, which was devastating. It was about £1,500. Of course, I never saw my money again, and they disappeared.
Please, please learn from my mistake. Don't pay them anything. That 'unblocking fee' is just a way for them to get more money from you. Report them if you can, but your priority is to protect yourself from further loss.
Oh dear, that sounds incredibly stressful. It's awful that these recovery scams exist, preying on people who are already down. The details they have are likely from the original scam site or a data leak, sadly that information gets bought and sold.
That 'unblocking fee' is a massive red flag. Legitimate recovery services usually operate on a success fee basis – they only get paid if they successfully recover your money, and it's a percentage of the amount recovered. They would never ask for money upfront for 'fees' or 'unblocking'.
My advice? Block all communication with them immediately. Do not send them any money. If you want to report it, you could try the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), even if you're not in the US, they track international scams. You've done the right thing by asking here!
This is exactly like what happened to my dad last year. Lost a fortune to a crypto scam, then got contacted by 'Global Asset Recovery' (different name, same story) wanting a huge fee to release his funds. He nearly paid it.
He was so upset and felt so stupid. We had to sit him down and explain it was just another scam. They are professional con artists. They know the emotional toll the first scam takes and they exploit it ruthlessly.
Don't pay. Don't reply. Just block them. You've lost enough already. Sending you strength.
Mate, I feel your pain. Went through something similar after a bogus share deal. Lost my savings, felt like a complete idiot. Then, out of nowhere, this company – I think they called themselves 'MoneyBack Hero' or something equally cheesy – contacted me.
They had all my info, same as you. Said they could get my money back, but needed a 'transfer facilitation fee' first. About R20,000. I was so tempted.
My wife, bless her, looked them up. Turns out they're a known scam outfit here in South Africa. They operate internationally. The fee was just to line their pockets. Please, for the love of God, don't send them a cent. Block them and forget they ever existed.
This is a well-known tactic. The 'recovery room' scam. After you've lost money to a primary scam, these groups identify you (often through data leaks or by purchasing victim lists) and contact you claiming they can recover your funds. They will fabricate stories about fees, taxes, or unblocking charges to extract more money.
'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like a typical name for such an operation. They are *not* legitimate. They are scammers preying on your vulnerability. The details they have are a hook; the 'unblocking fee' is the trap.
Never pay upfront fees for recovery services. Always look for companies that charge a percentage of the *recovered* amount, and even then, proceed with extreme caution. You can report these types of scams to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, or your local financial regulator. They maintain lists of unauthorized firms.
Oh no, please don't pay them anything! That sounds exactly like the recovery scams that target people who have already lost money. They know you're desperate, and they use that desperation against you. The details they have are likely from the original scam or a data breach – unfortunately, that information is often sold on the dark web.
These 'unblocking fees' are pure invention. A legitimate company would not ask for money upfront like that. They might take a percentage *after* the money is recovered, but never before.
It's great you're asking here before sending any money. Trust your instincts; if it feels too good to be true or just plain wrong, it probably is. You're smart to be wary.
Urgh, this is the worst kind of scam, preying on vulnerability. I lost a good chunk of money about 18 months ago to a fake investment platform that promised amazing returns. Felt like a complete fool for weeks. Then I got an email from a company with a name like 'Asset Recovery Solutions' (something like that) offering to help.
They wanted an upfront 'administrative fee' to start the process. I nearly fell for it, but my brother, who works in finance, told me to stop. He said any legitimate recovery service works on commission, *after* the funds are recovered. He also pointed out that the police might not be able to help much with tracing lost crypto, but they can often help track down these secondary scammers if you have enough evidence. So, maybe keep all emails from 'Global Asset Recovery'?
Oh, absolutely a scam. This is a classic double-dip. They pose as recovery agents after you've already been victimized. 'Global Asset Recovery', 'Funds Recovery Group', 'Wealth Recovery International' — these names are often used by the same groups. They prey on victims' desperation. Any legitimate recovery service works on contingency and only takes a cut *after* funds are returned, and even then, they'd have to be regulated. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is pure fiction.
I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's completely understandable to feel desperate and want your money back, especially after such a painful experience. It sounds like they're trying to exploit that vulnerability. That fee sounds like a massive red flag. Please don't send them any more money. It's likely just another layer of the original scam.
This smells fishy. How did they get your details and info about the police report? Scammers often get data from previous victims or data breaches. And this 'unblocking fee'? Never heard of such a thing in legitimate asset recovery. It's always a sign of a scam when they ask for upfront fees to release funds that are supposedly already yours. Be very careful.
Very likely another scam, unfortunately. They contact you after you've lost money, making you think there's a way to recover it, and then ask for more money. The detail they have might have come from the initial scam platform's database or from the police report itself if it was leaked. Do not pay them.
I... I fell for something similar. Not 'Global Asset Recovery', but another company. They said they could get my money back from a forex scam. They asked for an 'admin fee' first. I paid it. Then they wanted a 'tax payment'. I sent that too. That was 3,000 euros. Then they vanished. I never saw a cent. I feel like such a fool. They knew everything about my original loss. It felt so real at the time.
Been there. Lost £15k last year to a 'forex' scam. Felt like the world ended. Then some 'recovery' outfit contacted me, said they could get it back. Asked for a 'processing fee'. I was so tempted, my partner even agreed to loan me the money for it. But something felt off. I dug into them, found loads of complaints online. Thank goodness I didn't send them a penny. It IS another scam. They look for people who've already lost money. Don't pay. Report them to Action Fraud if you can, just to add to their complaint logs.
Yep, this is a classic advanced-fee scam. They lure you in with the promise of your lost funds, then hit you with a bogus fee. The details they have likely came from the initial scam operation, or possibly even from compromised police/regulatory databases, though the former is more probable. Don't pay. Your best bet for reporting is the FBI's IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) website, even if you're not in the US. They collect data on these international scams.
Oh no, darling, that sounds dreadful! Please, please don't send them the money. It's a trap. They are called 'recovery scams' and they are specifically designed to get money from people who have already lost money. They promise the impossible. It’s like pouring salt in a wound. You did the right thing reporting it to the police. Maybe try contacting ASIC in Australia if the platform had any connection there, or just file another report online.
This is 100% a scam. They are called 'recovery room' scams. They often get your contact details from the original scam operation or data breaches. The 'unblocking fee' is a fabrication. Legitimate recovery services, if they even exist for crypto, operate on success fees only and require extensive due diligence. Do not pay them another euro. Block them immediately.
This is unequivocally a scam. The entire premise of a 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a fabrication designed to extract further funds from you. These operations often acquire your details from the initial scam platform's data leak or through dark web marketplaces. If you're in the UK, you should report this to Action Fraud. They log these attempts even if recovery is unlikely. They are specialists in chasing these types of international fraud.
This is a known scam methodology. These 'recovery' firms are almost universally fraudulent. They often work in tandem with the original scammers or are operated by the same people. The detail they possess is to build false credibility. Any fee requested upfront to release funds is a dead giveaway. You should report them to the relevant consumer protection agency in your jurisdiction and consider filing a complaint with ASIC if there's any perceived Australian connection, as they maintain public registers of financial services firms.
WARNING!!! This is a classic secondary scam. They find people who have already been scammed and promise to recover their money for an upfront fee. There is no 'bank transfer unblocking fee'. This is made up. They will take your 2,500 euros and disappear. Do NOT pay. These recovery scams are incredibly common. You did right by questioning it. Please, do not send them any more money.
I was contacted by a similar company after I lost money to a fake investment site. They claimed to be from 'Payback Ltd' or something. They asked for a 'legal processing fee'. I paid about 1,000 euros. Then they asked for another 2,000 for 'compliance'. I stopped then, thankfully. When I refused to pay more, they stopped responding. I never got my money back, but I didn't lose any more. So, yeah, it's another scam.
This happened to me too! I lost about 10,000 dollars to a scam and then got an email from a company that sounded very official. They asked for a 'wire transfer fee'. I almost paid it. My husband stopped me. He said, 'If they had your money, why would they need you to pay to get it back?' That question really stuck with me. So I didn't pay. And they haven't contacted me since. It's definitely another scam.
This is a classic con, known as a 'recovery room' scam. The scammer knows you've lost money because they either still have access to the original scam's database or they bought your details. They dangle the carrot of your lost funds, then present a fictitious fee to 'release' them. The 'international banking system' excuse is pure theatre. Block them, report them, and do not send them any more money. It's essential to protect yourself from this second wave of fraud.
This sounds exactly like a scam I encountered. They called themselves 'MoneyBack Hero' (what a joke!). They said they needed a 'clearing fee' to release my funds from a dodgy investment scheme. I was so close to paying the 1,500 euros they asked for. Thankfully, my friend saw the email and told me it sounded too good to be true. He said real recovery companies don't ask for money upfront like that. I'm in Singapore, so I reported it to the police here. They didn't promise anything but logged it.
Oh là là, that sounds incredibly stressful. I can only imagine how vulnerable you must feel. Please know that this is a very common type of scam targeting people who have already suffered financial loss. They create a false sense of hope. The details they have are likely from the original scam or data brokers. That fee is a massive red flag. I learned the hard way with a similar situation; they just keep asking for more and more money. Do not pay.
My neighbor, bless her heart, fell for this. She lost money on a fake lottery ticket scam, then a company called 'Refund Police' contacted her. They wanted an 'administrative fee' to get her winnings back. She paid them 500 pounds. They disappeared. Never heard from them again. She was devastated. It's heartbreaking to see people preyed upon like that. It's definitely another scam, and you shouldn't pay.
This is a textbook example of a 'recovery scam'. They are the lowest of the low, preying on victims who are already feeling foolish and desperate. The details they have are meant to build trust, but it's a facade. Any request for upfront payment to release funds is a scam. Report it to Action Fraud in the UK, or your local equivalent. Don't engage further with them.
I'm so sorry you're going through this. It sounds incredibly frustrating and worrying. It's brilliant that you're questioning it – that's the most important step. These 'recovery' firms are almost always scams. They thrive on people's hope after a loss. The details they have might seem convincing, but they're often obtained from data breaches or previous scam operations. Please do not send them any money. You've already suffered enough.
Oh, absolutely this is a scam. 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like every other fake firm that preys on people who've already lost money. They get details from compromised data brokers or even sometimes from the original scammer if they're really shady. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a classic secondary scam. They'll take your fee, then invent another fee, and another, until you have nothing left. They are not recovering anything. My cousin, who works in financial compliance, has seen this exact pattern dozens of times. Do not send them a cent more.
I wish I had seen this post sooner. I fell for something so similar a year ago. Lost about $10k USD to a forex scam, then got contacted by a group called 'Funds Recovery Group' – totally legit sounding, right? They said they needed a 'processing fee' to get my money back. Paid it. Then they said there was a 'legal compliance hold' and asked for more. Never saw a dime. It's like they take your original loss and then multiply it. Stay away, please. The only thing that helped me was talking to a therapist.
Yes, this is a scam. One hundred percent. If you lost money to a scam, the odds of getting it back are incredibly slim, and legit recovery outfits are *extremely* rare and expensive upfront (and usually take a percentage of what they recover, not a 'fee' to unblock something). These guys are just the original scammers or their friends trying to squeeze more money out of you. If you want to report them, check out the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website. They're usually a good starting point for any scams happening in Canada.
Oh no, that sounds absolutely heartbreaking. It's completely understandable why you'd be hopeful, especially when they had details – that's such a nasty tactic. But please, please be careful. That 'unblocking fee' is a huge red flag. They are banking on you wanting your money back so badly you'll pay anything. It's so unfair that people get targeted like this. You're not stupid for falling for it; these scams are designed to be convincing. Keep your chin up.
Yes, it's a scam. I lost my life savings too, last year. A group that called itself 'Wealth Recovery International' contacted me. They said they were part of Interpol and could freeze the scammers' assets. I paid them a 'transfer fee'. Then they needed a 'government tax payment'. I paid that too. It was almost 8,000 euros in total. Then they just disappeared. They had details about my original scam too, which freaked me out. I reported it to my local police in Lyon, but they just shook their heads. I'm still so ashamed.
This is textbook. 'Global Asset Recovery' is probably just a made-up name. They find victims from forums or lists sold by other scammers. The 'unblocking fee' is their second bite at the apple. They know you're desperate. Don't pay. Seriously, don't. If you're in the US, you can report this to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). They won't recover your money, but filing a report adds to the data they collect on these operations. That's the only 'recovery' you're likely to get.
Oh, that sounds awful. I know that feeling of desperation. I was contacted by a company called 'Refund Police' after I lost money on a fake share trading app. They said they needed a 'registration fee' to start the recovery process. It was only a few hundred dollars, so I paid it. Big mistake. They then invented more fees. They had all my details too, which was unsettling. I eventually realised it was just another scam. I'm so sorry you're going through this.
Hang on, 'bank transfer unblocking fee'? That sounds incredibly fishy. Usually, if funds are recovered, they'd either deduct their legitimate fees from the recovered amount or charge you *after* you've received the money, not before. The fact they have details about your previous loss? That's just them showing they know *of* you, not that they can actually help. I'd be very, very skeptical. Have you tried verifying if 'Global Asset Recovery' is even a real, registered company with the French authorities?
Yeah, that screams scam to me. Similar thing happened to my neighbour. He lost a lot to a fake investment site, then got contacted by 'MoneyBack Hero'. They wanted an 'administrative fee' to release his 'frozen' funds. He paid it, and surprise, surprise – the funds never appeared. They just kept asking for more money. It's predatory. He was so embarrassed he didn't tell anyone for months. The police told him it was unlikely he'd get anything back. Awful.
Don't pay it. That is absolutely a scam. They are not recovery specialists; they are predators. They get your contact info from the dark web or from the original scammers. The 'details' they have are just to make you feel like they're legitimate. The 'unblocking fee' is a well-known tactic to get more money from victims. If you're in Australia, you can try reporting it to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) or perhaps Action Fraud UK if they claim international jurisdiction, but honestly, recovery is extremely rare. The best 'tip' is never to pay upfront fees to recovery scammers.
That sounds really stressful. It's great that you're questioning it though – that's the most important step. It's tough when you've lost money and then someone offers a solution that seems plausible, especially when they know specifics. But yeah, those upfront fees for 'unblocking' are almost always a sign of a scam. Keep talking to people here, and please don't send them any more money. You've already been through enough.
Block them. Immediately. This is a classic 'advance fee fraud' scam. They want you to pay a fee to release money that doesn't exist. They probably got your details from the first scammer. If you pay this fee, they'll invent another fee, and another. They might even send you a fake bank statement showing the money arriving, then say there's a problem with the 'unblocking' that requires *another* payment. I've seen this happen to colleagues. It's soul-destroying. The French police might not be able to do much about the initial loss, but for this new fee scam, you could report it to Europol maybe?
Yes, it's a scam. They are not recovering anything. That 'unblocking fee' is a classic ploy. They prey on your hope. They'll take the 2,500 euros and then invent another reason why the funds can't be released – maybe a 'tax liability' or a 'compliance verification charge'. It's endless. The fact they knew details about your original loss is just a scare tactic or they bought a list. Please, whatever you do, do not send them any more money. It's better to accept the loss and focus on protecting yourself from future scams than to throw good money after bad.
I am so sorry you are going through this. I had a similar experience about 6 months ago. I lost about €5,000 to a fake trading platform. Then I got an email from 'Global Asset Recovery' too! They asked for an 'international transfer fee'. I was so tempted, but something felt off. I googled them and found very few legitimate reviews, mostly complaints. I ended up not paying. They sent me angry emails for a week and then stopped. I'm still down the original €5k, but at least I didn't lose another €2,500.
That sounds exactly like the kind of scam I fell for last year. I lost about £8,000 to what I thought was a legitimate investment. Then a company, 'Payback Ltd', contacted me saying they could help. They knew details about my loss too. They asked for a 'processing fee' to get my money back. I paid it, and then they asked for another 'security deposit'. I lost £10,500 in total. They just vanished. You are being targeted again. Please don't pay them.
Hey, that's awful you're in this situation. It's completely normal to feel desperate after losing money, and these scam recovery firms are the lowest of the low, preying on that exact feeling. That 'unblocking fee' is a massive red flag. Legitimate recovery services, if they even exist in a form that can help with this kind of crypto scam, would almost certainly take a percentage of the *recovered* funds, and would be very transparent about it. Don't pay them another euro.
This is a very common scam, unfortunately. The 'recovery' companies are often run by the same people or networks as the original scammers. They mine data from previous scams or data breaches to find victims. The 'details' they have are meant to build false trust. The 'unblocking fee' is a classic advance-fee fraud tactic. Never pay money to get your own money back unless it's through a court order or a verified financial institution you initiated contact with. If you're in Canada, you can report this to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, but honestly, your best bet is to cut your losses and block these people.
I was in the exact same boat. Lost my savings to a fake forex platform, then got approached by a 'recovery' firm. They wanted a 'verification fee'. I paid it – about $1000. Then they wanted a 'legal fee'. I said no. They got aggressive. I realised it was a trap. The key thing to remember is that if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. These recovery scams are designed to exploit the hope you have after losing money. Stay strong and don't fall for it.
Oh goodness, that sounds like an absolute nightmare. It's completely understandable that you'd feel hopeful when they had details about your situation – that's how they reel you in. But that 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a huge, glaring red flag. It's a classic advance-fee fraud. They won't unblock anything; they just want that €2,500. You did the right thing by questioning it. Please don't send them any more money. You've been through enough.
Oh, this is textbook. Absolutely a scam. 'Global Asset Recovery,' 'bank transfer unblocking fee' – these are classic red flags. They prey on people who have already been scammed, knowing you're desperate and perhaps a bit less cautious. The details they had about your original loss? They probably bought that info on the dark web or got it from the original scammers. Do NOT send them money. Never pay a fee to 'unblock' your own money, especially when it's supposed to be coming *back* to you. You can report this latest attempt to Action Fraud in the UK, or your local police again, but honestly, focusing on getting that money back from them is unlikely. Your best bet is to cut all contact. Maybe check if the ASIC has any warnings about companies like this. Sorry you're going through this.
Courage! It's completely understandable that you're feeling desperate and a bit confused. These 'recovery' companies often sound convincing because they know what you've been through. But a fee to 'unblock' a transfer? That just doesn't sound right. It feels like another way to extract money from you. Remember how the police said tracing was difficult? These guys saying they can easily recover it might be exaggerating. Stay strong and try not to send any more money. It's a tough situation, but you're smart to question it.
Stop. Right. Now. This is 100% another scam. They are SO good at this. They find victims who've already lost money, often through shared data from the first scammer, and then hit you with a fake fee. 'Bank transfer unblocking fee' is a made-up charge. If your money was ready, it would just be sent. No one charges you to receive your own funds back. Please, please do not send them a single euro. Report them to the FBI IC3 if you can, even if you're not in the US. They track this stuff. Sorry, but that money is probably gone, and these guys are just trying to take more.
From a recovery perspective, this smells like a scam. The recovery fee model is often a double-dip for fraudsters. They'll invent 'taxes', 'legal fees', 'unblocking charges' – anything to get you to pay again. The fact that they had details about your original scam is common; data is shared among these criminal networks. Genuine recovery firms, if they exist and are legitimate, work on a contingency basis and take a percentage *after* funds are returned, and they'll be upfront about regulatory bodies like the AFM here in the Netherlands. Never pay upfront fees for recovery services. Report them to your local police and maybe check if they're mentioned on any consumer protection sites.
Oh love, it sounds absolutely heartbreaking to go through this. Losing savings is devastating, and then to be targeted again? It's just awful. That fee sounds really suspicious, doesn't it? Like they're trying to catch you out. It's brilliant that you're asking on here before sending anything. Trust your gut feeling, it's usually right when something feels off like this. Don't send the money. You've been through enough without being exploited further. Sending you a big hug.
This is a very common follow-up scam. I've seen 'Funds Recovery Group' and similar entities do this exact thing. They pose as legitimate companies to help you get your money back, but then they invent fees. The details they have? Likely from the initial scammer or data brokers. Don't pay. It's a classic phishing attempt, just with a different angle. They are preying on your hope. It's hard, but accept that the original money might be gone and don't give these new scammers any more.
Honestly, the name 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds a bit generic, and the 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a huge red flag. Why would *you* have to pay to unblock a transfer of *your* money? They should be paying the bank, or the process should be part of the recovery. These people are vulture scammers. They got your info probably from the first scammer. Do not pay. You have been targeted twice. It is very unlikely you will get the original money back. Focus on not losing more.
I was in your shoes. Lost a chunk to a fake forex platform last year. Felt like a total idiot. Then I got hit with a similar 'recovery' scam. They wanted a 'compliance fee' to release my 'frozen' funds. Sounded legit, had my details... I almost paid it. But I talked to someone on a forum, and they told me it was a scam. The original money? Never saw it again. These recovery scammers are the worst. They pick victims who are already hurting. Don't send them anything. You did the right thing by asking.
Reading this makes my stomach churn. I lost about £10,000 to a crypto scam a few months back, felt utterly broken. Then I got contacted by a 'Wealth Recovery International' – they wanted a 'legal processing fee'. I was so tempted, I really was. But I remembered what the officer at Action Fraud said: 'Never pay upfront fees for recovery'. So I didn't. They went quiet. I know the police can't do much, but keep reporting it to them. It helps build a picture. You're not alone in this, and you're doing the right thing by being suspicious.
Yeah, that sounds like a scam. 'Global Asset Recovery' is likely not a real entity. They are trying to get a fee from you. It's a common tactic. They know you're vulnerable because you've already lost money. The details they have? They got them from the original scammers, or they bought them. Don't pay anything. Seriously. It's just going to be a black hole for more money. It's tough, but that original money is likely gone. Focus on not getting scammed again.
Okay, from experience, these 'asset recovery' people are almost always scams themselves. They look for people who have reported being scammed. They'll pretend to have inside info or special access. That 'unblocking fee' is pure fabrication. No legitimate bank or financial institution requires a fee like that for releasing funds *to* the rightful owner, especially not after a recovery process. The fact they had your details is concerning, but it means they are likely connected to or bought data from the original scam operation. Do NOT send them any money. It's a classic bait-and-switch.
This is a known scam variant. They operate globally, and these 'recovery' companies are often run by the same people or associates of the original scammers. The 'unblocking fee' is a fabricated charge designed to extract more money from you. Genuine law enforcement or regulatory bodies like the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) in the UK do not charge such fees. If you want to report them, you can try contacting the FBI's IC3, even from France. They collate international scam reports. But do not pay them. That fee is a phantom.
I'm so sorry you're in this situation. It’s terrifying to lose your savings, and then to have someone contact you offering help… it’s a cruel world. That fee sounds very suspicious. I haven't encountered this specific scenario, but my gut says no. Trust that instinct. You are absolutely right to question it. Sending more money to get your money back rarely works, especially when it's an 'unblocking fee'. Try to ignore them. You've been brave enough to ask, that's a good step.
Oh heavens, I know that feeling. I lost over $20k to a fake investment scheme years ago. Felt like such a fool. Then I got a call from someone claiming to be from a 'financial recovery agency'. They wanted an 'administrative fee' upfront. I was so close to sending it, but my husband said, 'Hold on, does that sound right?' Thank goodness I listened. It was a scam. They just wanted more of my money. It's terrible they prey on people like us. Please don't send them anything. You've been through enough.
This is exactly what happened to me after I lost money to a fake tech support scam last year. A company called 'Payback Ltd' contacted me, saying they could get my money back. They asked for an 'international transaction fee' first. I paid about £1000, thinking it was the last step. Of course, no money ever came back, and they vanished. They had details like my name and the amount I lost. It's a cruel trick. Please, please do not send them money. They are just scammers targeting victims.
Don't do it. This is a known scam. They get your details from the original scammers or from data breaches. They then pose as recovery agents and ask for an upfront fee – 'unblocking fee', 'legal fee', 'tax fee', it's always something. They are scammers preying on victims. It’s a horrible situation to be in, and I’m really sorry you’re going through it again. The original money is likely gone, but don't let them steal more.
Bonjour. It is very probable that this is a scam. The mechanism you describe – a company claiming to recover lost funds and then asking for an upfront 'fee' to release them – is a well-documented second-stage scam. They often have details from the first scam because they are sometimes run by the same networks or buy information. In France, you can report fraud to the Police Nationale or Gendarmerie, and they have specific units for cybercrime. Do not pay this 'unblocking fee'.
Oh no, this sounds awful. I was contacted by a company called 'MoneyBack Hero' after I lost money to a phishing scam last year. They promised to recover my funds but needed a 'processing fee' first. I was so desperate, I paid them about S$1,500. Guess what? They disappeared. Never heard from them again. The original money was gone, and so was the 'processing fee'. It's a horrible trap. Please don't send them any money. You're already a victim, don't become one again.
This is incredibly disheartening. It's bad enough to be scammed once, but to be targeted again by recovery scammers is just cruel. That 'unblocking fee' is almost certainly fake. They want to make you pay again. When I lost money a while back, I contacted the FBI IC3 (even though I'm not in the US). They have a system for tracking these kinds of scams. It didn't get my money back, but it might help them catch these criminals. Don't give them another cent.
I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. It's a very common tactic for these recovery scammers to ask for upfront fees. They know you're hurting and looking for any glimmer of hope. That 'bank transfer unblocking fee' sounds completely made up. Trust your instincts. You did the right thing by asking here. Please don't send them any more money. You've suffered enough.
Oh, absolutely a scam. 'Global Asset Recovery'? Sounds like Payback Ltd or Funds Recovery Group's cousin. They prey on people who've already lost money. The 'unblocking fee' is the classic second stage of the scam. They *never* had your money, they just want *more* of yours. Don't send them a cent. Seriously. Cut all contact.
Been there. Exactly the same thing happened to me after I lost a bunch to some forex scam. They called themselves 'Wealth Recovery International' or something equally grand. They had my details too – that's the scary part. They'll ask for a 'transfer fee', then a 'tax', then an 'insurance', etc. It never ends. I finally just stopped answering. It hurts like hell, but sending more money is just throwing it into a black hole.
Please, please do NOT pay this fee. This is a textbook recovery scam. They find out you've been scammed (often by buying lists of victims) and then pose as a service to get your money back, but they are the *same* kind of scammers. They will invent more fees, and you'll never see your original money again. Report this 'Global Asset Recovery' company to Action Fraud if you're in the UK, or your local police again. Don't engage further.
This is a well-documented fraudulent tactic. The entities offering recovery services after an initial scam are almost universally phishing for additional funds. The 'unblocking fee' is a fabricated obstacle designed to extract more money from the victim. Official regulatory bodies like ASIC in Australia, or the equivalent in your jurisdiction, do not operate this way. Block them immediately and do not transfer any funds. Report to your financial institution as well.
Hmm, 'Global Asset Recovery' and an 'unblocking fee'? Sounds super dodgy. They have your details because scam networks often share info. It's designed to make you feel like they're legitimate because they know stuff. But a fee to unblock *your own* money? Nah, that's not how legitimate finance works. Usually, if they have to ask for money upfront for a recovery, it's a red flag the size of Texas.
Oh no, that's awful. I'm so sorry you're going through this again. It's completely understandable you'd feel desperate and want your money back, especially after falling for the first scam. Try not to beat yourself up about it. These recovery scams are incredibly cruel – they target the hope you have left. Just know you're not alone in experiencing this.
Yeah, that 'unblocking fee' is the oldest trick in the book for these recovery scammers. I got hit by something similar after losing cash to an online gambling scam years ago. They invented some sort of 'compliance fee' and then a 'legal processing charge'. It just kept coming. Don't fall for it. I lost another R50k to them before I realised. It's brutal. Wish I'd known about FBI IC3 back then.
Yep, another scam. They call themselves 'asset recovery' or 'fund recovery specialists' and then hit you with fees. It's the same play, different name. They know you're hurting and hoping for a miracle. The fact they have your details is standard for these follow-on scams; it's how they build false trust. My sister got caught by one of these. Sent them $3k, then they asked for another $5k. She never saw a dime. Just ignore and block.
OMG, this is exactly what happened to my uncle! He lost a fortune to a fake investment thing, then 'MoneyBack Hero' contacted him. They wanted a 'transfer facilitation fee'. He paid it. Then they wanted an 'international compliance fee'. He paid that too. Still no money. Now they're silent. He’s so embarrassed. Tell them to get lost. Report them if you can.
Heartbreaking that these people exist. That 'unblocking fee' is 100% a scam. They will keep inventing fees. If you want to try and get *anything* back, your best bet is to report it to the actual authorities – like the FBI's IC3.gov in the US, or Action Fraud in the UK, or your national police again. Do NOT pay these recovery scammers any more money. They are not recovering anything; they are just stealing again.
That sounds incredibly stressful, especially after going through the initial scam. It's completely normal to feel hope when someone says they can get your money back, but a fee like that is a massive red flag. They're probably just trying to get more from you. Keep all communication with them documented, but do not send any more money. Your original police report is a good start, but these recovery outfits are a whole different level of scam.
Right, so the first scam is bad enough, but these 'recovery' outfits are often the *same people* or affiliated groups. They track victims from previous scams. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is pure fiction. There's no such thing required by legitimate banks for releasing recovered funds. If funds *were* recovered (which they are not), the legitimate process would be direct, not via some intermediary asking for fees. Report them to the relevant financial crimes unit in France.
Absolutely not. This is a classic double-scam. They find you because you reported a loss, or because your details are on a list sold on the dark web. That 'Global Asset Recovery' is likely a shell company, probably linked to the original scam or another scam group. The 'fee' is invented. Never pay upfront fees to get your own money back. It's a lie. If you're in Australia, you could try lodging a report with ASIC, but honestly, your best bet is to cut contact.
Oh wow, 'Global Asset Recovery'? I got an email from them too! They had details about a forex scam I lost money on last year. They wanted a 'processing fee'. I almost paid it, but then my husband said it sounded fishy. He convinced me to look them up. Turns out they're just another scam. So glad I didn't send them anything. They're really good at sounding convincing, aren't they?
This is a common second scam. The details they have are likely from the original scam platform or a data breach. The 'unblocking fee' is completely fabricated. Real financial recovery processes do not involve upfront fees from third-party 'recovery' companies like this. It's designed to exploit your hope. Please do not pay them. Cut contact and block them.
Jeez, I know that feeling. After I lost my savings to a crypto scam, I was contacted by 'Funds Recovery Group'. They wanted a 'legal fee' to get my money back. I was so tempted, I really was. But then I thought, why would *they* get my money back for free? It didn't make sense. So I didn't pay. They called me a few times, then stopped. It's a scam, 100%.
Urgh, this is the worst kind of scam, preying on victims. That 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like a load of rubbish. They probably got your details from the same place the original scammer did. That fee is completely made up. They will just keep asking for more money and you'll never see yours again. Don't send them anything.
Oh that's rotten luck, I'm so sorry. It's a really cruel trick these scammers pull. They know you're hurting and hoping for a way out. The 'unblocking fee' is a total fabrication. If you want to do anything, maybe report them to the national fraud centre in France. They might be able to track the scam, though as you said, it's tough. Main thing is: don't give them more money.
Aw man, that sounds horrible. Definitely a scam. They operate by finding victims of previous scams and asking for 'fees' to recover the money. It's a second layer of theft. The details they have are probably from the original scam. Don't pay them a single euro. If you're in the UK, Action Fraud is the place to report this kind of thing.
This is absolutely a scam. They are fishing for more money. The fact they have your details is concerning, but these scam networks are often connected, and victim lists get shared. That 'fee' is entirely fictitious. No legitimate service requires an upfront 'unblocking fee' to return funds they supposedly recovered. Please do not send them any money. Cut off all communication.
Oh, this is a classic double-dip scam. They *know* you've been scammed, so they position themselves as the saviors. 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds incredibly generic, which is a red flag. Any legitimate recovery agency wouldn't require upfront fees like this for 'unblocking.' They'd usually work on a success fee, and even then, the upfront 'fees' are almost always bogus. Report these guys to Action Fraud if you're in the UK, or your national equivalent. Don't send them a single euro.
Oh no, that sounds incredibly stressful. I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's completely understandable why you'd be hopeful but also terrified. That 'unblocking fee' sounds really suspicious, especially after they already had your details. Don't send them any money until you're absolutely sure. Maybe try contacting the police again, or see if there's a consumer protection agency in France that can advise you.
Wait — they had details about your original loss? How? That's the part that gives me pause. Scammers often share information obtained from previous victims. And a 'bank transfer unblocking fee'? That sounds like pure fabrication. If they had your details, they likely got them from the original scam or a data breach. I'd be very careful here. Real recovery operations don't ask for fees to 'unblock' funds.
Mate, I've seen this exact scenario before. They get your hopes up, make you feel like your money is *almost* back, and then hit you with a fee. It’s a psychological trick. The 'international banking system' doesn't work like that. These 'recovery' companies prey on people who've already lost money. The details they had? Likely from the original scammer's database or a public record of your complaint. Don't pay.
I know that feeling, the mix of hope and dread. I lost money last year, and then some outfit contacted me saying they could get it back. They asked for an 'admin fee' first. I paid it. Guess what? Poof. Gone. They disappeared. Turns out 'Global Asset Recovery' is probably the same scam, just a different name. They know you're desperate. Don't give them another cent. Seriously, it took me months to accept I was hit twice.
I fell for something similar. Lost money to a forex scam, then got contacted by a 'recovery specialist.' They were very convincing, had all my case details. Then came the 'processing fee.' I paid it. Of course, the money never arrived. They went silent. It felt like a punch to the gut. Please, whatever you do, don't pay them. They are just scammers preying on your vulnerability.
This sounds like a textbook advance-fee fraud, unfortunately. The scammers who took your money might even be connected to these 'recovery' folks. They create a cycle. A real recovery service, if one even exists for crypto scams, would likely take a percentage *after* funds are recovered, not upfront fees. Always be wary of any upfront 'unblocking' or 'processing' fees. It's designed to extract more money from victims.
Oh, I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. The fact that they had your details is chilling, but it likely means they got them from the original scam or perhaps even bought them. This 'unblocking fee' is a huge red flag. These recovery scams are cruel; they know you're hurting and try to exploit that hope. I went through something similar a few years back. Don't pay them. Seriously. Cut contact.
This is precisely how the second wave of scams operates. After you've lost money, a new set of criminals identifies you as a potential target. The 'Global Asset Recovery' name is deliberately vague. They're hoping the details they have from your initial report make them seem credible. But asking for a fee to 'unblock' funds is a classic advance-fee scam. Never pay upfront fees for recovery services. Check if your national securities regulator, like ASIC in Australia, has warnings about such firms.
Absolutely not. This is a scam. They are parasites feeding on people who have already been victimized. The details they have? Likely obtained from the original scammers or a data leak. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a fabrication. Legitimate recovery efforts, if possible at all, do not require upfront 'unblocking' fees. If you're in the US, you can report this to the FBI's IC3, but more importantly, do not send them any money. This is a common follow-on scam.
Oh darling, that sounds dreadful! It's like they want to kick you when you're down. Don't you dare send them money. That whole 'unblocking fee' thing is a load of rubbish. They're just trying to get more cash from you. I've heard of so many people being targeted like this after losing money. Just ignore them and block their emails. Sending good vibes your way, hope you can put this behind you soon.
You're right to be suspicious. This is a very common scam targeting fraud victims. They 'recover' your details from databases of scams or even your police report and then pose as recovery specialists. The 'unblocking fee' is the hook. I fell for it once – lost another R10,000 to a company called 'Payback Ltd.' They promised my initial R100,000 back from a forex scam. Never saw a cent. Don't pay them. Block them immediately.
Alarm bells should be ringing loud and clear. This is a well-known secondary scam. They target victims who have already reported losses. The 'unblocking fee' is pure fiction, a way to get more money from you. The fact they had your details is concerning but easily explained – they often buy or trade victim lists. Don't pay. Cut all communication. You can report them to the Metropolitan Police's Action Fraud if you're in the UK, but focus on not losing more.
STOP! Do not send them any money. This is a classic recovery scam. They often pose as legitimate agencies, sometimes even referencing details from your original report to gain trust. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is their invented way to extract more funds. Legitimate recovery agencies, if they can even recover funds from crypto scams (which is rare), usually work on contingency and take a cut *after* success. These people are predators.
My wife got hit by this exact same thing last year. Fake crypto scam, lost a lot. Then a company called 'Funds Recovery Group' contacted her. Same story – 'unblocking fee' for international transfer. She was so close to paying. I had to really sit her down and explain it was just another scammer. They are vultures. Please, please do not send them any money. They probably got your details from the first scammer.
Oh, that sounds like a nightmare. I'm so sorry you're in this position. It's completely normal to feel vulnerable after losing money, and these scammers exploit that. That fee sounds really suspicious. Maybe you could check if there's a consumer protection agency or even a government body in France that deals with financial scams? Just to get a second opinion before you do anything.
This is incredibly common, unfortunately. They prey on the hope that people have after losing money. The 'unblocking fee' is the classic advance-fee fraud mechanism. They want money upfront. Don't trust them. If you're in the US, the FBI IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) is the place to report it. They might not recover your money, but reporting helps them track these operations. Cut contact.
Yes, this is almost certainly a scam. The details they have likely came from the original scammers or a data breach. They are leveraging your vulnerability and desperation. Any fee to 'unblock' funds is a huge red flag. Real recovery efforts are very difficult, especially with crypto, and legit ones wouldn't ask for such fees upfront. Look into reporting options, but the main thing is not to send them more money.
I was contacted by a company called 'Wealth Recovery International' after I lost money in a phishing scam last year. Same exact story: they had details, they promised recovery, then they wanted an 'administrative fee' to release the funds. I almost paid it, but something felt off. Good thing I didn't. They disappeared a week later. This 'Global Asset Recovery' is likely the same thing. Don't pay.
It is a scam. They find people who have already been scammed and hit them again. The 'unblocking fee' is total nonsense. They get your information from the original scam, or from data brokers. Please, please do not send them any money. You've been through enough. Consider reporting them to your local authorities, but prioritize stopping further loss.
Oh dear, this is a classic and very nasty follow-on scam. 'Global Asset Recovery' sounds like a fabricated name, probably one of many shell companies used by the original scammers or their associates. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a pure fabrication. No legitimate recovery service works that way. They *know* you're vulnerable and are trying to squeeze more money out of you. I've seen countless variations of this. Report this new outfit to Action Fraud if you're in the UK, or your local police again, emphasizing the second attempt. Do NOT send them any money.
Mon dieu, I am so sorry you are going through this. It sounds incredibly stressful, and to be targeted again... c'est inacceptable. Please, please be very careful. They are playing on your hope. If you lost money to a scam, and then a 'recovery' company contacts you out of the blue and asks for money upfront, it's almost certainly another scam. They have details because they were likely connected to the first one, or they bought your data. Stay strong.
STOP. Do not pay them a single euro. This is 100% a scam. These 'asset recovery' firms are predatory. They feed off victims of the initial scam. The 'details' they have are from the original scam or a data breach. The 'unblocking fee' is made up. Think about it: if they could just unblock your funds, why would they need you to pay *them* first? They'd just do it. These are the same people or a syndicate working with them. Block them immediately and do not respond.
Yep, this is a very common scam. They often pretend to be legitimate recovery services after you've reported a loss. My neighbour fell for this last year, they asked for a 'legal processing fee' to get her stolen jewellery back. She paid it, and surprise surprise, never saw a penny. These people are bottom feeders. The best bet is to report them, but don't expect much. They use fake company names, like 'Global Asset Recovery', which means nothing. Just ignore them, block the emails.
This is a textbook 'recovery scam'. The initial scammers often sell your details to other scam operations. The mention of a 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a huge red flag. Legitimate financial institutions or recovery agencies do not operate like this. If funds are legitimately recoverable, the process usually involves legal claims or a lengthy investigation, not an upfront fee for a 'block'. Try reporting this to the FBI's IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) if you're in the US, or the equivalent in France. They might not recover your money, but reporting helps them track these operations.
I think I got an email from them too, or something very similar. It was after I lost about $10k to a fake forex trading site back in March. They said they were 'Wealth Recovery International'. They also wanted some kind of fee to release the funds. I felt sick. I almost did it, honestly. My husband talked me out of it. He said if it was real, they wouldn't need money from us first. We're still looking into other ways to get our money back, but paying them felt wrong. I'm so glad I didn't pay.
Oh, that sounds absolutely dreadful. It's awful to be scammed once, and even worse to be targeted by another group like this. Please don't let them take advantage of your pain. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a classic tactic used by these recovery scams. They prey on the hope that people desperately want their money back. It's like rubbing salt in the wound. If you haven't already, consider reporting this second attempt to your local police as well. They might be able to track patterns.
Hmm, 'Global Asset Recovery'? Never heard of them. And a 'bank transfer unblocking fee'? That just sounds off. Why would they need you to pay a fee for the bank to release *your* money? If the money is there, and it's yours, it shouldn't require a fee from a third party like that to be sent to you. Sounds like they are just inventing hurdles to get more cash. Be really, really careful.
I'm so sorry you've been through this, it's a terrible situation to be in. It's understandable you'd feel a glimmer of hope when they contacted you, especially with details about your case. But these 'recovery' companies are often just another layer of scam. They operate on a principal-agent model where they want you to pay them *before* they 'recover' anything, which never happens. Genuine recovery operations, if they exist for crypto scams, would likely work on contingency or be very upfront about costs, not these opaque 'fees'.
Hang in there! It's completely understandable that you'd be drawn in by a company offering to help, especially when they seemed to have information. That's how they hook people. The 'unblocking fee' is a huge warning sign. Real recovery efforts rarely, if ever, ask for upfront fees like this. It's often a way for them to get more money from victims. Try to take a deep breath and not send them anything. Your local police or even a consumer protection agency might offer advice.
This sounds exactly like what happened to my mother. She lost a lot of money to a fake investment platform, and then got contacted by 'Funds Recovery Group'. They wanted a 'compliance fee' to release her 'recovered funds'. She paid it, of course, because she was so desperate. Needless to say, the funds never arrived. They just took the fee and vanished. So yes, this 'Global Asset Recovery' is almost certainly a scam. Don't pay them.
Oh, that's awful. I went through something similar a few years back. Lost money to an online trading scam, and then a company called 'Payback Ltd' contacted me about recovering it. They asked for an 'admin fee' first. I was so tempted to believe them, but something felt off. I did some digging online, and found a few posts on forums warning about them. Turns out they were just another scam. I'm so glad I didn't send them the money. Please, please be careful. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Report them if you can.
You are NOT alone in this, and it's completely normal to feel desperate and hopeful when someone offers a solution. That's precisely why these scams exist. The 'Global Asset Recovery' is a predatory entity, preying on your vulnerability. The 'bank transfer unblocking fee' is a fabrication. No legitimate service would demand such a fee to release funds that are rightfully yours. They simply create fake problems to extract more money. Report this new scam attempt to Action Fraud (if you're in the UK) or your local equivalent. Keep all communication, it might be useful later.

