Lost my crypto after a 'customer support' remote access scam on Coinbase, is it recoverable?

asked 24d ago19 views110 answers
0

I'm feeling really stupid and heartbroken right now. Yesterday morning, I got a text message, looked *exactly* like Coinbase, saying there was suspicious activity on my account and I needed to verify immediately or it would be locked. I clicked the link, and it took me to a site that also looked exactly like Coinbase. I entered my login details, and then it said I needed to call their support line.

I called the number, and the person on the other end, sounded very professional, told me I needed to install TeamViewer so they could 'secure my account.' I was half-asleep, honestly, and just followed instructions. They accessed my computer, moved some crypto from my Coinbase Pro account to another wallet I didn't recognize. About 0.8 ETH and some USDC, like, low five figures USD. My husband is furious. Is there ANY way to get this back? I reported it to Coinbase but they just said they can't reverse crypto transactions.

110 Answers

45

Ugh, this is a classic one, Lea, and I'm really sorry it happened to you. This is a sophisticated form of phishing combined with a remote access scam. The fake Coinbase link captured your login, and the 'support' call convinced you to give them direct control. Once they accessed your computer via TeamViewer, they could initiate transactions from your Coinbase Pro account directly.

Here's the tough truth: crypto transactions are irreversible. Once it leaves your wallet and goes to theirs, it's incredibly hard to get back. Coinbase is right, they can't reverse it. What you *can* do, and should have done already, is report it to law enforcement. In the US, that's the FBI IC3. Since you're in France, check with your local police and possibly Europol. Provide them with everything: screenshots of the text, the fake website URL, the wallet addresses the funds went to (you can find these in your Coinbase transaction history), and any phone numbers you called. They *might* be able to trace it, especially if it landed in an exchange wallet that has KYC. But the chances are slim, tbh. Be *very* wary of anyone claiming they can 'recover' your crypto for a fee; those are almost always scams.

David Anderson · Houston, USAanswered 24d ago
32

Oh wow, Lea, je suis tellement désolé que cela t'arrive. It's incredibly easy to fall for these, especially when they look so legit and you're caught off guard. Don't beat yourself up too much. The scammers are pros at making you feel rushed and panicked. Your husband might be upset, but please remember you're the victim here, not the one to blame.

As David said, the chances of getting the crypto back are super low because of how blockchain works. But still, report everything to your local gendarmerie or police. Sometimes, if the scammers use an exchange with KYC, there's a *tiny* possibility of a trace. And definitely block that number and email. Make sure you've changed your Coinbase password and enabled 2FA (two-factor authentication) on *all* your crypto accounts and email, if you haven't already. It's a hard lesson, but you're not alone.

Hugo Bernard · Marseille, Franceanswered 24d ago
21

Honestly, Lea, once you gave them TeamViewer access, it was game over. That's like handing someone the keys to your house and then asking if you can get your stuff back after they've moved it out. Crypto transactions are final. There's no undo button. Most of these 'support' scams rely on that human element of panic and trust. Always, always, always go to the official Coinbase website (typed in manually, not from a link) if you get any suspicious messages. And never, ever give anyone remote access to your computer for financial stuff. It's a harsh lesson, and I'm truly sorry, but recovery is highly unlikely.

Connor Dlamini · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 23d ago
38

This is a prime example of a 'social engineering' scam, Lea, and it's incredibly effective because it preys on trust and urgency. The initial phishing text for login details, followed by the remote access request, is a common playbook. Once they had remote control, they could bypass any 2FA on your computer and execute transactions directly from your Coinbase Pro account.

From a technical standpoint, the crypto is gone from your control. However, there's a slim, slim chance for law enforcement tracing. If the scammer moved the funds to a centralised exchange, that exchange might have KYC (Know Your Customer) information on the scammer. That's why reporting to the FBI IC3 (for US victims) or local police/cybercrime units (for international victims like yourself in France) is crucial. They can issue subpoenas to exchanges. Firms like Chainalysis or TRM Labs can sometimes trace the funds across different wallets, but they work with law enforcement, not individuals directly for recovery. Be extremely cautious of any 'recovery services' that approach you, they're almost always scams. Your best bet is official channels, but manage expectations – successful recovery is rare.

Olivia Taylor · Sydney, Australiaanswered 23d ago
16

Mate, I had a similar thing happen, though not with TeamViewer, it was more of a fake 'exchange verification' form where I entered my seed phrase, stupid I know. Lost about 3k in Bitcoin. The gut punch is real. My missus was absolutely fuming too, took ages for her to even look at me right. I reported it to the UK National Cyber Security Centre and Action Fraud, but honestly, they just said it's very difficult. Never heard back from them really. These scammers are smart. I totally get how you fell for it. Just make sure you've secured everything else – new passwords, new 2FA, all that. Sorry, but it's probably gone.

Thomas Wood · Nottingham, United Kingdomanswered 23d ago
12

Ugh, this is just awful, Lea. I'm so sorry. I almost fell for something similar last year. A text claiming to be from my bank, saying my card was compromised, and to call a number. Luckily, I was busy and didn't call right away, and then I checked the bank's official site. It's so easy to be caught off guard. Like everyone else is saying, for crypto, once it's gone, it's pretty much gone. I'd still report it to the French authorities and make sure all your other accounts are super locked down. Change passwords everywhere, not just Coinbase. Enable YubiKeys or authenticator apps if you haven't. It doesn't help get the money back, but it might prevent future heartache. Thinking of you. Don't let your husband make you feel worse, you were targeted.

Amelia Gauthier · Calgary, Canadaanswered 23d ago
25

Oh man, that's rough. I've been there. Not with crypto, but I got hit with a fake tech support scam a few years back where they tried to get me to buy gift cards. Luckily, my bank flagged something suspicious. The remote access part is the killer here. Once they're in, they can do whatever they want. For crypto, it's especially bad because transactions are final. Don't fall for any 'recovery services' you see online now, they're just going to scam you again for upfront fees and deliver nothing. You've reported to Coinbase, which is good for their internal records, and now you need to focus on law enforcement. It's a long shot, but it's the only legitimate path. And seriously, secure *all* your digital assets, even your email. Use unique, strong passwords and 2FA.

Ashley Williams · Portland, USAanswered 23d ago
18

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if they got remote access and moved your crypto, it's almost certainly gone for good. Think of it like cash. If someone comes into your house, takes cash from your safe, and walks out, it's gone. Crypto is even worse because there's no central authority to reverse it. The 'customer support' angle is a classic psychological trick. They rush you, panic you, and make you think you need to act immediately. That removes your critical thinking. The only 'recovery' often discussed is if the funds land on a KYC'd exchange and law enforcement gets a court order, which is rare for individual victims and usually for much larger amounts. Sorry, Lea. Learn from it, secure everything better, and move on. It sucks, I know.

Tyler Martinez · Chicago, USAanswered 23d ago
14

Ach, Lea, das ist furchtbar. Remote access scams are so insidious because they bypass so many of the security layers people put in place. You thought you were talking to Coinbase support, and they were literally controlling your screen. It's not about being stupid; it's about being human and trusting when you shouldn't. Unfortunately, the decentralized nature of crypto means that once it leaves your wallet to a scammer's, there's no bank to call and say 'stop payment'. The best you can do is report it to the police, provide all the transaction IDs, and hope they can trace it. But honestly, the chances are very, very slim. Make sure you revoke any TeamViewer access or similar apps, change all your passwords, and enable hardware 2FA if you can for your remaining accounts. My heart goes out to you.

Lina Schroder · Dusseldorf, Germanyanswered 23d ago
28

Hi Lea, I'm really sorry to hear this happened to you. It's a very common and devastating scam. The key takeaway here, and a lesson for everyone reading, is: Never give remote access to your computer, especially for financial accounts. No legitimate financial institution or crypto exchange will ever ask you to install TeamViewer or any other remote access software. They might guide you through steps, but they won't take control.

What happened to you is a 'wallet drainer' through social engineering. They phished your credentials, then used remote access to directly initiate the transfers from your machine. As others have said, reversing crypto is almost impossible. Focus on securing your other accounts NOW, if you haven't already. Revoke any permissions from apps you don't recognize, change passwords, and enable hardware 2FA if you have any significant assets left. Report it to local law enforcement, but prepare yourself for the likelihood that the funds are unrecoverable. It's a terrible experience, but please don't let it deter you from learning better security practices.

Rachel Ong · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 23d ago
5

This is a classic remote access scam, unfortunately. They prey on urgency and fear. Once they have remote control and access to your wallet, recovering that specific crypto is nearly impossible because transactions on the blockchain are final. The scammer likely moved it to an exchange or another wallet they control. The key red flag here was the demand to install remote access software – legitimate support will *never* ask you to do that. Your only real recourse is reporting it, which you've done.

Lucas Richard · Lyon, Franceanswered 23d ago
4

Oh no, that sounds absolutely awful! I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's completely understandable why you fell for it; those fake sites and texts are incredibly convincing. Please don't beat yourself up too much. I've heard of similar scams. I'd definitely keep pushing Coinbase for any info they *might* have, even though they said they can't reverse it. Sometimes they track patterns. Also, you should report it to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Even if they can't get it back, it helps them track these people.

Jia Goh · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 23d ago
3

Remote access? For a 'suspicious activity' alert? That just doesn't add up. Coinbase would send a notification within the app or email, not demand you call a number and install TeamViewer. They want to scare you into making a mistake. The crypto is gone, friend. The blockchain is designed for finality. I'd be very wary of anyone *else* offering to recover funds for a fee, too. That's usually just another scam on top of the first one.

Andreas Becker · Munich, Germanyanswered 23d ago
6

This is exactly what happened to me last month! Got the same text, same fake website. I didn't install TeamViewer, thank God, but I did give them my login details before I realised. They didn't get into my wallet, but I spent a week changing passwords and freaking out. I can't believe they actually got your crypto. It feels like a violation. I'm so sorry this happened to you. What did Coinbase say when you reported it?

Liam O'Neill · Dublin, Irelandanswered 23d ago
7

Happens more than you think. I lost about $3k last year to a similar Coinbase impersonation scam. They used a fake support chat window on a convincing site. Didn't ask for TeamViewer, but got me to 'verify' my wallet by sending a small amount to an address they provided... which was just to confirm I could send *to* it, then they drained. The crypto is likely long gone, moved through mixers or onto a P2P exchange. Best tip I learned: *Never* trust unsolicited messages about your crypto accounts. Always go directly to the official app or website yourself. And check the URL VERY carefully.

Logan Anderson · Quebec City, Canadaanswered 23d ago
5

The scenario you described is a textbook social engineering attack. The phishing text and the fake website are designed to bypass your natural caution. Installing TeamViewer is the critical step that gave them direct control. While Coinbase itself can't reverse blockchain transactions, they *might* be able to flag the account activity internally if you provide the transaction IDs. Also, check if the scammer sent the funds to a known exchange; if so, you could try reporting the wallet address to that exchange's compliance department, though success is unlikely. Always, always, always verify support numbers or links through official channels, never from a message that pops up out of the blue.

Grace Burke · Belfast, Irelandanswered 23d ago
4

Oh honey, I'm so sorry this happened to you. That's a terrible way to start the day, or any day. It's so easy to get tricked when you're tired or stressed. Those scammers are just the worst. While getting the crypto back is tough, make sure you've reported it to Coinbase *and* the FBI IC3. Keep records of everything: the text, the website, the phone number, transaction IDs. You did the right thing by reporting it, even if it feels like a dead end now.

Sarah Rodriguez · Houston, USAanswered 23d ago
6

I feel this so much. Lost a grand last year. Same story – fake alert, convincing site, then 'support' asking me to send a 'test transaction' to a wallet. Sounded legit at the time, my wife was next to me and even she didn't spot it. They are just that good. It’s gone. I reported it to the police here, they took notes but said crypto is almost impossible to trace. Now, I don't even click on links from companies, I go straight to their official site. If I get an email or text, it goes straight to the bin unless I initiated contact.

Grace Brown · Liverpool, United Kingdomanswered 23d ago
5

This is a very common type of crypto scam, often called 'vishing' (voice phishing) combined with remote access. The scammers create urgency, impersonate a trusted entity like Coinbase, and use social engineering to trick you into granting access. Once they have control of your computer and your session is logged into Coinbase, they can initiate transfers to wallets they control. The key takeaway is that legitimate crypto exchanges will never ask you to install remote desktop software or provide your login credentials to 'customer support.' Report the scammer's wallet address on Etherscan if you can find it, and file a report with the FBI IC3. While recovery is unlikely, reporting helps authorities track these operations.

Mia Morin · Halifax, Canadaanswered 23d ago
7

I lost ETH to BitForex impersonators last year. Same thing – fake alert, call support, install AnyDesk. They took everything. Coinbase just told me, 'Sorry, crypto is irreversible.' My partner left me over it. I feel so lost and stupid, just like you. They promised they were 'securing my account.' I hate them. What else did Coinbase say?

Lily Ndlovu · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 23d ago
4

Oh goodness, that's a nightmare scenario! It's so easy to get caught out when you're tired and they sound so official. Don't blame yourself too harshly. Those fake websites and texts are designed to be super convincing. The fact that they asked you to install remote access software is a huge red flag that should have tipped you off, but hindsight is 20/20. Keep all the evidence you have. Maybe try lodging a report with your local police too, just to have an official record.

Sophie Brown · Perth, Australiaanswered 23d ago
5

This is a sophisticated scam. They didn't just phish your login; they convinced you to give them direct control of your system. The process you described: fake alert -> fake website -> phone call -> remote access software -> fund theft is a well-trodden path for these criminals. The crypto is almost certainly gone, likely laundered through P2P exchanges or privacy coins. What you *can* do is report it to the FBI IC3. Also, if you have the transaction hash, you can look it up on Etherscan to see where the funds went, though it probably won't lead anywhere actionable. The most important lesson: Never, ever grant remote access to your devices for 'support' reasons, especially not for financial accounts.

Noor Sheikh · Abu Dhabi, UAEanswered 23d ago
4

Wow, that's rough. I had a similar scare with Kraken last month. Got a text saying my account was compromised. I almost clicked, but my gut told me something was off. I went directly to the Kraken website myself and saw no alerts. It seems like these scams are getting more aggressive. I'm sorry you lost your crypto. It's infuriating how easily they can impersonate legitimate companies. Did you happen to get the scammer's phone number?

Ethan Smit · Pretoria, South Africaanswered 23d ago
5

That's just awful, I'm so sorry. I had a situation last year where I thought I was talking to Binance support, and they almost convinced me to send them crypto for 'verification'. I caught it at the last second because they asked me to send it to a specific wallet address. My partner was standing right there and told me it was a scam. We need to be SO careful. If you ever get a message like that again, take a deep breath and *always* go to the official website or app yourself, don't click any links.

Emily Martinez · Philadelphia, USAanswered 23d ago
4

Oh no, that's heartbreaking! It sounds like a classic remote access scam. The fake text and website are designed to panic you. The fact they asked you to install TeamViewer is the biggest red flag. Legitimate support never needs remote access to your computer for basic account issues. While getting the crypto back is a long shot, make sure you've filed a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). It's important for tracking these scams, even if they can't recover your funds directly.

Mia Michel · Montpellier, Franceanswered 23d ago
6

I feel your pain. Lost a significant chunk last year to something similar. Fake Coinbase alert, they got me to install AnyDesk. They moved my funds fast. I contacted Coinbase, they were useless. Contacted the police, also useless. I even paid someone from 'Wealth Recovery International' $2k to 'help' me get it back – they just took my money and disappeared. Now I know better. Never trust anyone who contacts you first about your crypto. Check the URL. Check the sender. Triple check. If in doubt, close the window and call the company directly using a number from their official website.

Jun Wong · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 23d ago
5

This is brutal. I had a friend go through this with Binance. They lost about £10k. The fake text/site/call combo is their bread and butter. They're good at sounding professional. The crypto is likely on its way to being laundered through mixers or multiple wallets already. There's not much recourse once it's moved off the exchange. Report it to the FBI IC3, but honestly, don't expect miracles. The best defence is education – never give remote access or login details to anyone claiming to be support.

Liam Gauthier · Montreal, Canadaanswered 23d ago
5

Ah, this is a grim one. The 'suspicious activity' text is a classic opener. Then the fake website to harvest credentials, followed by the phone call to install remote access software. It’s a three-stage attack. The moment they asked for TeamViewer, that was the critical failure point. Crypto transactions are irreversible. Your funds have likely been swept into privacy-focused wallets or exchanges that don't cooperate with law enforcement. Your best bet is reporting to the FBI IC3, but recovery chances are extremely slim. Always be skeptical of unsolicited contact, especially when it involves urgency or demands for software installation.

Lucas Petit · Bordeaux, Franceanswered 23d ago
5

Oh god, I’m so sorry. That is literally my worst nightmare. I got a fake text from Kraken once, almost fell for it. I was half asleep too. But I stopped myself. I remember thinking, 'Why would they text me?' and then I went straight to the app. It's so upsetting that these scammers are out there, preying on people. I don't know if there's anything you can do, but please don't blame yourself. It sounds like they were very convincing.

George Harris · Manchester, United Kingdomanswered 23d ago
6

This happened to my brother-in-law last year. Lost a bunch of ETH. Exact same story - fake text, fake website, called support, installed AnyDesk. They cleaned him out. He was devastated. He reported it everywhere, including to the FBI IC3, but no luck getting it back. They said crypto is too hard to trace once it's moved. It’s a horrible scam, and I’m so sorry you fell victim to it. I’d advise anyone reading this: never, ever let a supposed 'support' person remote into your computer for anything crypto-related.

Sophie Doyle · Limerick, Irelandanswered 23d ago
5

Oh no, that's a brutal scam, and unfortunately, very common. They prey on that sense of urgency. Coinbase (and pretty much every legitimate exchange) will NEVER ask you to install remote access software like TeamViewer to 'secure your account.' That's a massive red flag. Once crypto is moved to a wallet they control, it's practically untraceable and unrecoverable through normal channels. The best you can do is report it to the relevant authorities.

Emma Becker · Hamburg, Germanyanswered 23d ago
4

That sounds absolutely devastating. I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's easy to fall for these things when you're caught off guard, especially with how professional they can make the fake sites look. Don't beat yourself up too much. Reporting it to Coinbase is the right first step, even if they can't reverse it. Maybe try reporting it to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)? They might not get it back, but filing a report is important.

Andreas Wagner · Frankfurt, Germanyanswered 23d ago
3

Remote access? For crypto support? Ngl, that sounds super sus from the get-go. Why would a legit company need to get onto your machine? They usually just guide you through the app/website. I've seen too many people lose funds this way. Coinbase is pretty clear about never asking for that. I don't think there's much hope for recovery, honestly. That money's gone.

Grace Smit · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 23d ago
4

This sounds like a classic phishing and remote access scam. Legitimate exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, or BitForex do not operate this way. They wouldn't ask you to install third-party software for account 'verification' or 'security.' The link was likely fake, the site a clone, and the 'support' line staffed by scammers. Recovering funds moved via remote access is extremely difficult, often impossible.

Jonathan Koh · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 23d ago
6

Been there. Almost lost my entire MetaMask balance last year to a fake NFT support scam. They used Discord and got me to share my screen. Thankfully, I caught on *just* before they could drain my wallet, but the sheer panic… I know exactly how you feel. They made me think I was going to get banned. The key is — NEVER give anyone remote access to your devices if you're managing crypto. NEVER. Report it, but don't expect miracles.

Chloe Dubois · Marseille, Franceanswered 23d ago
5

Oh mate, that's rotten luck. It's so easy to get caught out when you're not fully awake and they sound so convincing. Don't blame yourself too harshly. The trick these scammers use is making you panic. Just remember, if anyone ever asks you to install software like TeamViewer or AnyDesk to manage your crypto accounts, it's a scam. Always double-check URLs and never click suspicious links from texts. File a report with the FBI IC3, it's worth a shot.

Jack Evans · London, United Kingdomanswered 23d ago
3

Seriously? TeamViewer? That's the oldest trick in the book for remote access scams. If a company needs you to install something to 'help' you, especially with financial accounts, run away. They created a fake urgency to make you act without thinking. Coinbase support won't call you out of the blue demanding you install software. I'm really sorry, but recovery is highly unlikely.

Jules Laurent · Lyon, Franceanswered 23d ago
7

WARNING: This is a textbook remote access scam. If anyone, especially 'support' for any crypto exchange (Coinbase, Kraken, etc.), asks you to install TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or any similar remote control software, IT IS A SCAM. Hang up immediately. They are not support; they are thieves. They gain control of your device and drain your accounts. Once the crypto is in their wallet, it's practically gone. Reporting is necessary, but recovery prospects are slim to none.

Anna de Jong · Tilburg, Netherlandsanswered 23d ago
5

This is a very common vector for crypto theft. The fake SMS leading to a fake website is classic social engineering. The request for remote access via TeamViewer is the final nail in the coffin. Once they have control, they can do whatever they want. While Coinbase can't reverse transactions, the transaction hashes can be tracked on a blockchain explorer like Etherscan. It won't get your funds back directly, but it's part of the forensic trail if you report it to law enforcement.

Aoife Smith · Cork, Irelandanswered 23d ago
4

That's a horrible situation, I'm really sorry. It's tough when you're tired and get that 'urgent' message. Those fake websites and support numbers are designed to trick good people. It's a tough lesson, but a really important one: never, ever grant remote access to your computer to anyone claiming to be from support, especially for crypto. Just remember that for the future. Keep reporting it everywhere you can.

Jules Leroy · Nantes, Franceanswered 23d ago
5

SCAM ALERT! The *exact* same thing happened to my cousin last month, but with a fake Binance message. They got him to install AnyDesk. He lost about 2 ETH. He reported it to the FBI IC3, and even filed a report with his local police, but he hasn't seen a cent back. Don't trust any unsolicited contact about your crypto account, especially if it demands urgent action or remote access.

Niklas Hoffmann · Hamburg, Germanyanswered 23d ago
6

Ugh, I feel sick for you. That remote access part... yikes. My friend Sarah got tricked into something similar last year with fake Kraken support. They took her funds. She hired one of those 'crypto recovery' firms, like Wealth Recovery International, and they just scammed her again! Total waste of money. She ended up just reporting it to IC3 and trying to move on. It's a brutal lesson, but at least you're warning others.

Lea Schulz · Leipzig, Germanyanswered 23d ago
5

This is heartbreaking. I had a similar scare with a fake BitForex impersonator message a while back. I nearly clicked the link but thankfully my partner saw it and pointed out the sender's number was slightly off. It's terrifying how good they are. The key takeaway for everyone reading this: never trust unsolicited messages about your crypto accounts. Always go directly to the official website or app yourself.

Henry Clark · Leeds, United Kingdomanswered 23d ago
4

I'm so sorry this happened. It's a horrible feeling, that helplessness. My sister-in-law fell for a similar scam a few months ago. She reported it to Coinbase and they basically told her what you were told. She also tried reporting it to the FBI IC3. While she hasn't recovered the funds, she said filing the report made her feel slightly less powerless. It's worth doing, even if it doesn't result in recovery.

Jonathan Teo · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 23d ago
5

That's a really tough situation, I'm sorry to hear it. These remote access scams are unfortunately super common in the crypto space. The best advice I can give anyone is to *always* independently verify any communication you receive. Don't click links in texts or emails. Go to the official website or app directly. And never, ever let anyone you don't know intimately have remote access to your computer if you're managing finances.

Connor Mokoena · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 23d ago
4

Man, that sucks. Remote access is the big danger zone. They make it sound so legit, but it's pure deception. I've seen people lose their entire portfolios that way. It's almost impossible to get that crypto back once it's in their wallets. Your best bet is reporting it to the FBI IC3. They collect this data even if they can't personally recover your funds.

Cian Kelly · Limerick, Irelandanswered 23d ago
4

Oh gosh, that's awful. Please don't feel stupid, those scammers are incredibly sophisticated and prey on people's trust and fear. The remote access part is the biggest red flag. If anyone ever asks you to install TeamViewer or similar to 'help' with your crypto account, just disconnect immediately. It's a scam. Reporting it is the right thing to do.

Mason MacDonald · Calgary, Canadaanswered 23d ago
5

Heartbreaking. I had a friend who lost a significant amount to a very similar remote access scam. They were posing as MetaCert support. She was devastated. She filed a report with the FBI IC3 and even tried some shady recovery places that promised results (definitely avoid Funds Recovery Group or anything similar, they are scams themselves). Sadly, the crypto was gone. She learned the hard way: never grant remote access.

William Gagnon · Halifax, Canadaanswered 23d ago
4

That is incredibly frustrating and I'm sorry you're dealing with it. Coinbase support, like most major exchanges, will not ask you to install remote access software. That's the universal sign of a scam. They will guide you through their official channels. It's a harsh lesson, but a vital one for the community. Keep reporting it; persistence matters even if immediate recovery isn't possible.

Milan Meijer · Rotterdam, Netherlandsanswered 23d ago
6

This is a classic scam. They create fake urgency, fake websites, and then use social engineering with remote access tools. Once they have control of your device and access to your wallet/exchange account, recovery is virtually impossible because crypto transactions are immutable. The primary advice for anyone reading: *never* click links in suspicious texts or emails, and *never* grant remote access to your device for financial matters. Report it to the FBI IC3, it's the official channel for these types of crimes.

Noah Mulder · Nijmegen, Netherlandsanswered 23d ago
3

Oh no, that's brutal. That whole remote access scam is sadly very common, and they're good at making those fake sites and texts look legit. That 'suspicious activity' line is a classic hook. Coinbase is right, unfortunately, crypto transactions are irreversible once confirmed on the blockchain. You can check the wallet address they sent it to on Etherscan if you want to see where it went, but don't expect to get it back that way.

Saoirse Murphy · Belfast, Irelandanswered 23d ago
5

I'm so sorry, this sounds like exactly what happened to me last year. I lost about $20k USD. The feeling of helplessness is the worst part. I tried everything, even paid one of those 'recovery' firms (Wealth Recovery International, what a joke). They took my money and disappeared. Don't fall for that trap. Your best bet is to file a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). It's a long shot, but it's free and it's the official channel.

Anna Bakker · Nijmegen, Netherlandsanswered 23d ago
2

This is a huge red flag. If you ever get a message from an exchange like Coinbase or Kraken demanding immediate action, NEVER click the link or call the number provided. Go directly to the official website or app yourself by typing the URL or opening the app. Scammers specifically target people when they're tired or stressed. They want you to rush. Be hyper-vigilant with any unsolicited contact about your accounts.

Naledi Khumalo · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 23d ago
1

Wait, TeamViewer? That's insane you let them install that. Honestly, if they had control of your computer and your wallet access, it was already gone. Coinbase support would NEVER ask you to install remote access software. That's like inviting a burglar in and asking them to show you where the valuables are. I doubt you'll see that crypto again, sorry.

Chloe Garcia · Nantes, Franceanswered 23d ago
4

Ugh, I feel this so hard. I was scammed out of a similar amount by fake Trezor support about six months back. They had me 'update my firmware' which was actually malware. My husband was livid, too. It took me months to even talk about it. For what it's worth, reporting it to IC3 was cathartic, even if nothing came of it directly. Just knowing you did *something* helps a little.

Emily Williams · Portland, USAanswered 23d ago
6

The methodology you described is textbook social engineering combined with a phishing attack. The fake SMS, the spoofed website, the urgent tone, and the request for remote access are all designed to bypass your critical thinking. Once they had control via TeamViewer, they could bypass 2FA if it was software-based on that machine or if they tricked you into approving it. Reporting to Coinbase is good, but their hands are tied with blockchain. Definitely file with IC3. Also, consider reviewing your online security hygiene—change all passwords, enable 2FA everywhere you can using an authenticator app (not SMS if possible).

Rachel Rodriguez · Boston, USAanswered 23d ago
3

Seriously, that's a nightmare scenario. Those remote access scams are terrifyingly effective. If you ever get a call or text asking for remote access, even if they sound legit and claim to be from Coinbase or your bank, just hang up. Block the number. Then, go to the official website of the company yourself and initiate contact through their *verified* channels. Never trust unsolicited contact.

Alice Petit · Toulouse, Franceanswered 23d ago
2

This is the crypto version of ransomware, almost. They didn't lock your files, they stole your funds directly. It’s a harsh lesson, and I’m really sorry you went through it. The scammers are getting sophisticated. That 'customer support' angle is particularly nasty. The key takeaway here is that *real* support will never ask for remote access or your private keys. Never.

Aisha Al Mansoori · Abu Dhabi, UAEanswered 23d ago
4

I also fell for a similar scam, but mine involved a fake MetaMask support chat on Discord. They convinced me I had a bug and needed to 'sync' my wallet, which involved giving them my seed phrase. Gone. ~ $15k. I reported it to MetaMask support, who were useless, and then I filed with the FBI IC3. Haven't heard anything back, but I'm glad I at least reported it. Trying to move on but it's hard.

Ava Cote · Edmonton, Canadaanswered 23d ago
1

Hmm, I'm not sure what good reporting it will do. Crypto is anonymous, right? Once it's in their wallet, it's basically gone. I mean, I've heard of people using chain analysis to track funds, but usually that's for big law enforcement cases. For a few thousand dollars, I wouldn't hold my breath. Just be more careful next time.

Faisal Ahmed · Dubai, UAEanswered 23d ago
2

Yeah, that's rough. My cousin got hit by a similar thing with BitForex impersonators last year. They used a fake app install for 'security'. Lost about 2 ETH. It's heartbreaking. Coinbase is correct though, transactions are final. Trying to recover it is like trying to un-ring a bell. Your best bet is probably just to learn from it and move on, unfortunately.

Ava Gagne · Toronto, Canadaanswered 23d ago
5

This is exactly why I stick to hardware wallets and cold storage for anything significant. If it wasn't on my computer or phone, they couldn't get remote access to it. And even then, I'd be incredibly wary of any 'support' asking for links or approvals. For exchanges like Coinbase, I *only* log in by typing the URL directly into my browser and I enable all possible security features, including whitelisting withdrawal addresses if they offer it. It's a pain, but better than losing everything.

Sophie Hoffmann · Hannover, Germanyanswered 23d ago
3

Mate, that's a shocker. Totally understand feeling stupid – I've made mistakes before too. The key thing here is that those phishing texts and calls are designed to prey on urgency. They want you panicked. If you ever get that vibe, just step away. Put the phone down, walk away, have a cup of tea. Then approach it calmly. Check official sources. Your husband will get over it, focus on securing what's left.

Charlie White · Melbourne, Australiaanswered 23d ago
2

Oh là là, quelle situation! I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's a horrible feeling. You did the right thing by reporting it to Coinbase, even if they can't help directly. The most important thing is that you're safe now. Take it as a very expensive lesson. Don't blame yourself too much, these scammers are professionals at manipulation.

Mia Pelletier · Quebec City, Canadaanswered 23d ago
4

This is a terrible scam. I lost a smaller amount last year to a fake Kraken support scam on Telegram. They pretended my account was flagged for money laundering and I needed to deposit more to 'clear' it. I was naive and fell for it. I reported it to IC3 but haven't heard back. It's devastating. My savings took a massive hit.

Olivia van der Merwe · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 23d ago
3

I got hit by a very similar scam a few months ago. Fake Binance support, remote access, the whole nine yards. Lost about 1 ETH. It was crushing. I did report it to IC3, and while they couldn't recover the funds, they did say my report could help build patterns for future investigations. It’s worth doing, even if just for that. Don't beat yourself up too much; these guys are slick.

Andreas Fischer · Hannover, Germanyanswered 23d ago
4

Look, I know it feels bad, but you're not alone. These scams are brutal. I lost about $5k to a fake NFT marketplace support scam. They got me to approve a malicious transaction. Thankfully, my wife caught it before it went too far. We immediately revoked all permissions on the site through our MetaMask and changed everything. It was a wake-up call. For crypto recovery, your best bet is to report to IC3 and hope for the best, but focus on preventing future losses.

William Cote · Victoria, Canadaanswered 23d ago
3

So sorry this happened. That remote access part is the real killer. Once they're on your system, it's game over. Coinbase is right, crypto is irreversible. But your bank might be able to help if you funded your Coinbase account with a credit card or direct bank transfer recently. Sometimes they can reverse charges, but it's unlikely for crypto purchases themselves. Filing with IC3 is your best official step.

Liam Smit · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 23d ago
2

Man, that's rough. That whole remote access play is a classic. They get you scared about your account, then offer a 'solution' that requires you to give them the keys. I've heard of people trying services like Funds Recovery Group, but honestly, they sound like another scam on top of the first one. Stick to official channels like IC3. And seriously, for future reference: no legitimate company will ever ask for remote access to your PC to 'fix' something.

Matthew Gonzalez · Houston, USAanswered 23d ago
3

Oh no! That is absolutely gutting. I'm so sorry. What a horrible experience. These scammers are absolute scum. It’s good you reported it to Coinbase and to the FBI IC3. Even if recovery seems unlikely, it’s important to report these things. And please, please be careful with unsolicited messages, especially ones that create urgency. Take a deep breath, verify independently, and never grant remote access. Sending you strength.

Sophie Smith · Hobart, Australiaanswered 23d ago
5

Ah, that’s a rough one. Those fake support scams are brutal, especially when they spoof official comms so well. The fact they got you to install TeamViewer is the big giveaway. They don't need remote access to 'secure' an account; that's a classic red flag. Crypto is designed to be irreversible, so direct recovery from Coinbase or the blockchain itself is basically nil. The most you can do now is file a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and any local law enforcement. It's a long shot, but mass reports can sometimes flag patterns. Don't fall for any 'recovery services' that pop up now, they're almost certainly just another scam trying to get you to pay them more.

Conor Murphy · Limerick, Irelandanswered 23d ago
7

OMG, I’m so sorry this happened to you. I was scammed too, almost the exact same way, about six months ago. Lost my whole savings. Felt like such a fool. They also had me install some remote access thing. It took me ages to even admit it to anyone, felt so much shame. The recovery companies that contacted me afterward? All scams. Don't send them a cent. My advice: just take a break from crypto for a bit. Heal. And maybe consider a hardware wallet next time, and never ever give remote access or seed phrases to anyone. Sending you strength.

Ava Harris · Darwin, Australiaanswered 23d ago
3

Hmm, Coinbase support wouldn't ask you to install TeamViewer. That's a massive red flag right there. Also, legitimate exchanges rarely initiate contact via text message for security issues; usually, it's an email or in-app notification. The link itself was likely a phishing site. Crypto transactions are final, like sending cash. Once it's moved, it's gone unless the thief makes a mistake or you can somehow trace it to an exchange that cooperates with law enforcement, which is very rare with these kinds of scams.

Felix Hoffmann · Hamburg, Germanyanswered 23d ago
6

This is a standard social engineering attack. The fake SMS, the spoofed website, the urgent tone – all designed to panic you. Remote access is the critical step they needed. Once they had that, your wallet was effectively theirs. I've seen similar tactics used by groups impersonating various crypto exchanges, though I haven't heard of BitForex impersonators specifically doing this exact sequence. Coinbase is right, they can't reverse blockchain transactions. Your best bet is reporting it to the FBI's IC3. Don't expect to get the funds back, but reporting helps them track the scams.

William Nguyen · Perth, Australiaanswered 23d ago
4

Reading this makes my stomach churn. It’s exactly what happened to me last year. I lost about $10k in Bitcoin. The fake text, the fake website, then the 'support' person walking me through installing AnyDesk. I even gave them my 2FA code! I felt so incredibly stupid afterwards. My husband was also livid. I tried reporting it everywhere but got nowhere. The only thing I can suggest is maybe looking into a company like Wealth Recovery International, but honestly, I've heard they might be scams themselves. Just be super careful. It's a horrible feeling.

Marie Fischer · Dusseldorf, Germanyanswered 23d ago
5

Oh no, darling, I feel your pain. It’s devastating. I fell for a similar trap a few months back. Thought I was talking to Binance support. They convinced me to send my crypto to a 'secure wallet' they controlled while they 'fixed' my account. Of course, it never came back. I cried for days. My sister said I should report it to the police, but what can they do with crypto? I’m still in shock. Please take care of yourself. We’re all just trying to make it in this world.

Sophie du Plessis · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 23d ago
8

This is precisely why you *never* give remote access to your computer or phone to *anyone* claiming to be support, no matter how official they seem. That's rule number one. And if an exchange contacts you via text about suspicious activity? Delete it. Always go directly to the official website or app yourself. Don't click links. Don't call numbers from messages. The crypto is gone. You can report it to the FBI IC3, but honestly, the chances of recovery are minuscule. Focus on prevention for the future.

Daan de Boer · Rotterdam, Netherlandsanswered 22d ago
6

I'm so sorry you went through this. It sounds terrifying. Please don't beat yourself up too much; these scammers are incredibly sophisticated and prey on people's trust and urgency. It's good that you reported it to Coinbase, even though they can't reverse transactions. Have you tried filing a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)? While recovery isn't guaranteed, it's a crucial step for tracking these operations. Sending you lots of support during this difficult time.

Aisha Iqbal · Abu Dhabi, UAEanswered 22d ago
4

Wait — TeamViewer? Seriously? That's like inviting a burglar in and giving them the keys. Coinbase support will *never* ask for that. Legitimate exchanges operate through their own platforms, not random phone calls and remote access software. The text message and website were fake. It’s a classic phishing and remote access scam. Crypto is designed to be irreversible. You might as well have handed cash to a stranger on the street. Reporting it is the right move, but don't expect miracles.

Milan Smit · Groningen, Netherlandsanswered 22d ago
7

I've been there. Lost about 2 ETH that way last year. Woke up to a fake 'security alert' text. Called the number, they walked me through installing Chrome Remote Desktop. Felt like such an idiot afterwards. My wife actually found me crying in the kitchen. The only thing that gave me some peace was knowing I wasn't the only one. I found a few forums with people sharing similar stories. Some people mentioned trying Funds Recovery Group, but honestly, I think that’s just another scam. Just gotta learn and move on, I guess.

Joshua Teo · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 22d ago
8

This is heartbreaking to read. These scams are getting dangerously good. The moment they asked for remote access via TeamViewer, that should have been the alarm bell. No legitimate financial institution, crypto or traditional, will ever ask for that. It's a trick to gain control. Once they have control of your device and access to your accounts, they can drain them in seconds. Crypto transactions are final. Your only recourse is reporting to authorities like the FBI IC3, but recovery is highly unlikely. Please warn others about this specific method.

Jonas Schmidt · Dresden, Germanyanswered 22d ago
5

Yeah, that's a textbook remote access scam. They create urgency with the fake alert, lure you to a fake site to get your credentials, and then use the remote access to move funds to wallets they control. It's incredibly difficult to trace and even harder to recover. I'd suggest checking if the destination wallet is associated with any known exchange via a blockchain explorer like Etherscan. If it is, you *could* try reporting the wallet address to that exchange, but chances are slim. Mostly, these funds end up in mixers.

Xin Goh · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 22d ago
6

I feel you. I had a similar experience with what looked like Binance support last year. They had me download a remote access app and send funds to a 'verified' wallet. It was a mess. Lost about $8k. The recovery services that contacted me? All legit-sounding but ultimately wanted upfront fees. One was called Funds Recovery Group. Huge scam. Just delete their emails and block them. It's a harsh lesson, but hopefully, you won't fall for it again. Stay strong.

Niklas Muller · Cologne, Germanyanswered 22d ago
4

The whole remote access part is the killer. Legit support doesn't work like that. Especially with crypto, it's decentralized and transactions are final. Once it left your wallet and went to theirs, it's pretty much gone. Think of it like cash – once you hand it over, you can't get it back unless the recipient is caught. Reporting to the FBI IC3 is the official channel, but frankly, the success rate for these specific types of scams is very low. Just make sure your computer is clean now.

Oliver Johnson · Melbourne, Australiaanswered 22d ago
6

That's a brutal scam, and unfortunately, it's becoming very common. The key is that they *never* needed to access your computer to 'secure your account.' Any request for remote access, especially via third-party software like TeamViewer or AnyDesk, is a massive red flag. If you get contacted by 'recovery specialists' claiming they can get your crypto back, be extremely wary. Many of them are just the scammer's associates trying to extract more money. I'd report it to the FBI IC3, but honestly, the odds of recovery are slim to none.

Oliver Wilson · Gold Coast, Australiaanswered 22d ago
5

Man, that sounds exactly like how my mate lost his ETH. He got the same text, same fake site, same call, same TeamViewer BS. Lost about 1.5 ETH. He was gutted. He tried reporting it to Coinbase, then the police, nothing. He says the only thing he's doing now is using a hardware wallet for everything and only accessing his accounts from a dedicated, clean laptop. Says he'll never trust a text or pop-up again. It's a harsh lesson, but I guess it's better than losing more.

Jack Sullivan · Waterford, Irelandanswered 22d ago
3

Ugh, this is awful. I've heard of similar scams targeting people who use Kraken, too. The fake alerts, the fake websites, the urgent calls – it's all designed to make you act without thinking. Remote access is the absolute worst part. They get control and then it’s game over. Crypto transactions are irreversible by design. There's no chargeback like with a credit card. Report it to the FBI IC3, but be prepared that recovery is extremely unlikely. Keep your device malware-free from now on.

Arthur Bernard · Nice, Franceanswered 22d ago
5

It’s truly sickening how these scammers operate. The impersonation tactics are next-level. That text message and the website looking identical to Coinbase is a huge red flag, and asking for TeamViewer is the smoking gun. Crypto transactions are final on the blockchain. Once they moved it, it's out of your control. Your best bet is to file a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). They collect this data to track criminal networks, even if individual recovery is rare. Please be incredibly careful with any future communications.

Liam Morin · Quebec City, Canadaanswered 22d ago
6

I'm sorry to hear about your loss. That remote access step is a critical failure point. No legitimate support will ever ask for that. It's a fundamental security principle. Crypto transactions are irreversible. Your report to Coinbase is noted, but their hands are tied. Reporting to the FBI IC3 is the correct procedure for law enforcement. Be aware that many 'recovery services' you'll find online are scams themselves, often run by the same people or their associates. They'll ask for upfront fees and disappear. Just block them.

Naledi Naidoo · Bloemfontein, South Africaanswered 22d ago
5

This is exactly why I always tell people: never click links from texts, especially if they seem urgent or relate to finance. Always go directly to the official website or app. And *never* let anyone you don't personally know and trust have remote access to your computer. That's how they got you. Crypto is irreversible, so once it's gone, it's gone. File with the FBI IC3, but honestly, don't hold your breath for recovery. Learn from this, warn others, and secure your future crypto activity.

David Fischer · Berlin, Germanyanswered 22d ago
7

Oh no, that's a classic and unfortunately very effective scam. The fake website, the urgent text, the remote access request — they hit all the common phishing and social engineering triggers. The scammer likely used your own credentials to move funds to a wallet they control. Reversing crypto transactions is, as Coinbase stated, impossible due to the nature of blockchain technology. Once it's sent, it's gone unless the recipient sends it back. Did you happen to see the destination wallet address during the remote session? If so, you can check its activity on a blockchain explorer like Etherscan. Sometimes, you can see where funds are moved to, but recovery is another story.

Amelia Thompson · Brighton, United Kingdomanswered 22d ago
5

That sounds absolutely awful, I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's completely understandable how you could fall for it, especially first thing in the morning. Those fake sites and support numbers are designed to look 100% legit. Don't beat yourself up over it. What matters now is learning from this. Have you tried reporting it to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)? It's a long shot for recovery, but it helps them track these operations.

Lucas Roy · Quebec City, Canadaanswered 22d ago
3

Remote access? TeamViewer? Seriously? That's a massive red flag right there. No legitimate support will ever ask you to install remote access software to 'secure your account.' They can't do that. Coinbase has its own security protocols. If they needed verification, it would be through their app or website, not by giving someone control of your PC. I'm not trying to be harsh, but it sounds like you were definitely tricked into giving them full access. Don't expect to see that crypto again, sorry.

Lucas Bouchard · Toronto, Canadaanswered 22d ago
4

Same thing happened to me last month, but it was with Kraken. Got a text, clicked the link, filled in my details and then they wanted to 'verify my hardware wallet.' Needed remote access. I gave it to them. Lost about $5k in BTC. My partner is also going mental. Coinbase said the same thing to me. Felt like such an idiot. Still no sign of it. It's just vanished.

Conor Ryan · Belfast, Irelandanswered 22d ago
3

This is rough. Look, the immediate giveaway here is the 'verify your account via remote access' part. That's a huge, neon sign saying 'SCAM.' Legit exchanges don't operate like that. They use multi-factor authentication and in-app prompts. Once someone has remote access to your machine and your active session, they can do anything your logged-in account can do. I really doubt there's any recovery path here, sadly. Report it, but don't hold your breath.

Laura Bauer · Hamburg, Germanyanswered 22d ago
5

Ugh, that's a nightmare scenario. It's so easy to get caught out when you're tired or rushed. The scam artists are really good at making things look official. Don't let your husband's reaction make you feel worse; these scams prey on everyone. The best you can do now is to make sure you've secured your Coinbase account with a strong, unique password and enabled 2FA (if you haven't already). Sometimes these scams try to phish for other accounts too.

Levi Meijer · Amsterdam, Netherlandsanswered 22d ago
4

I lost $2000 to a similar thing last year. They called me pretending to be from my bank, telling me my card was compromised. Asked me to 'verify' transactions by installing some app. It wasn't TeamViewer, it was AnyDesk. They took control and moved money from my savings. Reported it to the police but they basically said crypto is too hard to trace and unless I could prove it was *them* specifically, which is impossible, it's gone. I still can't sleep properly thinking about it.

Hannah Evans · Glasgow, United Kingdomanswered 22d ago
3

This is exactly what happened to my cousin too. She got a fake email from Binance, then they wanted her to install AnyDesk. She had about $8k in there. They drained it. She's been sick over it. She did file a report with IC3 but hasn't heard anything back. It's just gone. So frustrating. It feels like there's nothing we can do.

Andrew Martinez · Dallas, USAanswered 22d ago
4

Ag man, that's lekker bad luck. Remote access is the big one. No one legitimate needs that. You give them the keys to the kingdom with that. Coinbase themselves won't ask for that. Did you use the same password on Coinbase as any other site? If so, change it everywhere. Also, enable 2FA if you haven't. That might stop them getting into other things.

Daniel Nel · East London, South Africaanswered 22d ago
6

I've been through something similar, though not crypto – it was my online banking. Fake call, fake website, they got me to install TeamViewer too. Lost about €3,000. It was devastating. I felt so foolish afterwards. One thing I learned: always, always verify unsolicited contact independently. Look up the official company number yourself, don't use numbers from texts or emails. Don't click links. I never got my money back, but I haven't fallen for anything since.

Chloe Dubois · Montpellier, Franceanswered 22d ago
5

So sorry to hear this. These scams are brutal. The remote access part is the biggest giveaway, as others have mentioned. It bypasses all the usual security steps. For future reference, if you ever need to check a transaction or wallet activity directly, you can use a blockchain explorer like Etherscan. You can input wallet addresses there to see the flow of funds without logging into anything. It's a good way to verify if something looks suspicious on your end, but unfortunately, it doesn't help recover what's already gone.

Yi Lau · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 22d ago
5

Man, that is brutal. I know the feeling. I got hit by one of those 'impersonating BitForex' scams last year. They promised huge returns, then wanted a 'verification fee' sent via crypto. Lost a couple grand. They just disappear after that. Coinbase is right; crypto transactions are final. The best I did was report it to the FBI IC3. It's a long shot, but it's a channel. Don't let anyone tell you to pay recovery fees, though. That's just another scam.

Noah Jansen · Utrecht, Netherlandsanswered 22d ago
3

Okay, wait — are you *sure* it was Coinbase? Like, 100% sure? Because there are tons of fake exchanges out there, like BitForex impersonators, that create very convincing fake platforms. If you logged into a fake site *before* they even got you on the phone, they might have had your credentials from that point. Remote access is bad, yes, but logging into a fake site is often the first step where they steal your actual login info.

Sophie Jansen · The Hague, Netherlandsanswered 22d ago
6

This is a textbook example of a remote access scam, unfortunately common in the crypto space. The professionalism of the scammer is designed to build trust, making you less likely to question the request for remote access. That's the critical point where control is lost. Your funds were likely moved to a mixer or a series of P2P exchange wallets to obfuscate the trail. Reporting to Coinbase and the FBI IC3 is the correct step, but recovery chances are extremely low. Always be wary of unsolicited contact and requests for remote access.

Arthur Michel · Lyon, Franceanswered 22d ago
4

That's rough, I'm sorry. It sounds like they tricked you into giving them direct control of your account. This happened to a friend of mine with Binance; they lost a fair bit. She was so distraught. They kept telling her it was to 'prevent hacking' but then they just moved everything. She got told by the police that crypto is like cash; once it's gone, it's gone. Is there any chance you recognize the name 'Wealth Recovery International'? Some of these recovery firms are actually just more scammers.

Olivia Ndlovu · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 22d ago
6

Oh no. That is so painful. I had something similar happen, but it was a fake MetaMask support scam. They wanted me to 'verify my wallet' by importing my seed phrase. Which is just insane, I know, but I was so panicked about being hacked. Lost everything in that wallet. It was a hard lesson. Don't trust anyone asking for your seed phrase or remote access. Ever.

Lina Leroy · Nantes, Franceanswered 22d ago
4

That's a really tough situation, and it's completely understandable to feel that way. You did the right thing by reporting it to Coinbase, and reporting it to the FBI IC3 is also a good step, even if recovery is unlikely. It helps build a case against these scammers. For future reference, always be skeptical of urgent requests via text or email, especially if they ask for personal information or remote access. Legit companies rarely initiate contact like that.

Daniel Hughes · Cardiff, United Kingdomanswered 22d ago
5

This is EXACTLY the kind of scam that targets people. Especially if you were half-asleep. The fake SMS, the fake website, the fake support agent needing remote access – it's a multi-stage attack. They likely got your initial login from the fake site, then used that to drain your funds once they had remote control. I’ve seen reports of this happening on almost every exchange. Be super careful with links and support numbers from now on. Never trust an unsolicited contact.

Ming Wong · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 22d ago
4

I'm so sorry, that really sucks. The remote access part is the absolute worst, isn't it? I fell for a phishing scam once where they got me to click a link that installed some kind of keylogger. It wasn't as bad as yours, only lost about $200, but it felt awful. You learn to be SO much more careful after something like that. Never click links from texts, always go directly to the website yourself.

Lotte Jansen · Eindhoven, Netherlandsanswered 22d ago
5

Oh wow, that's horrifying. I've heard of these scams but never thought someone would fall for it. I guess they're just that convincing. The remote access bit is the killer, right? Once they're in, it's game over. I've seen people post about losing funds to fake Kraken support before. It’s really tough. Don’t let your husband make you feel worse, it happens to a lot of people. You’re stronger for sharing.

Hannah Wong · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 22d ago

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