My 'new friend' from Signal convinced me to invest in a 'stable' platform. Lost 8k. Any hope for reporting from NL?

asked 34d ago22 views148 answers
0

I really feel stupid now, but I met this person through a mutual online group, then we moved to Signal. We talked for months, very casual, they seemed really nice. Then they started talking about this stable crypto investment platform, 'CoinEgg Pro' it was called. They showed me screenshots, everything looked legit. I put in a small amount, it grew, I even withdrew a tiny bit to test it. Then I invested my savings, about 8000 euros. They kept pushing for more, but then suddenly, I couldn't log in. They blocked me on Signal. I've tried contacting the platform but no response. I'm in the Netherlands, what can I even do? I'm heartbroken and ashamed.

Mentioned in this discussion
CoinEgg· scam
#romance-scam#pig-butchering#crypto-scam#coinegg#netherlands#reportingasked by Lotte de Boer · The Hague, Netherlands

148 Answers

47

Lotte, I completely echo what Naledi mentioned. Your experience aligns perfectly with a pig-butchering scam. The 'CoinEgg Pro' is merely a rebranded version of a known scam platform. After reporting to the a Dutch police, also consider reaching out to the AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten), which is the financial regulator in the Netherlands. While they might not assist in recovery directly, they can issue warnings about such platforms.

Critically, *do not* fall for recovery scams. These often follow right after the initial scam, with people promising to get your money back for an upfront fee. They're just preying on your vulnerability. Your first priority is stopping the bleeding and protecting yourself from further harm. Change passwords, secure your accounts.

Daniel Yeo · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 34d ago
35

Oh man, i'm so sorry this happened to you. It's not your fault, these scammers are incredibly sophisticated. CoinEgg, or variants of it like 'CoinEgg Pro,' are classic pig-butchering scams. They build trust, show you fake profits, and then disappear.

Firstly, you NEED to report this to the police in the Netherlands. They might forward it to a specialized cybercrime unit. Secondly, gather *all* your evidence: chats from Signal, transaction records (bank transfers to crypto exchanges, then to their platform), screenshots of the fake platform, everything. This paper trail is crucial.

Also, if you sent crypto, you can try reporting to ChainAbuse. They help trace crypto transactions, which won't get your money back directly but can help with intelligence. It's a long shot, but sometimes the more info collected, the better the chances down the line. Don't give up.

Naledi Smit · Pretoria, South Africaanswered 34d ago
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Lotte, please don't feel stupid or ashamed. These syndicates are highly organised, using psychological tactics that can fool anyone. What you're describing is textbook 'pig butchering', and it's devastating. For Singapore, my local police would tell me to report it to the SPF (Singapore Police Force) Anti-Scam Centre. Given you're in the Netherlands, I'd suggest immediately filing a police report there. Also, try contacting your bank or crypto exchange you used to send funds; sometimes, in very rare cases, if caught quickly enough, there might be a slim chance to intercept transactions. Focus on getting a police report number, that's step one.

Jun Lim · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 34d ago
12

Ugh, another CoinEgg 'Pro' story. It's always variations on the same theme. Honestly, Lotte, I hate to be the bearer of bad news but getting that money back is incredibly unlikely. Once crypto leaves your wallet and goes to one of these scam platforms, it's pretty much gone. The 'pro' version is just a new skin on the same old con. Report it to the Dutch police, sure, but manage your expectations. They're often overwhelmed with these cases and even with ChainAbuse tracking, it rarely leads to recovery.

Mason Bergeron · Victoria, Canadaanswered 34d ago
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So sorry to hear about your loss. It's a horrible feeling. I know for us in the US, we'd report to the FBI's IC3. For the Netherlands, you'll want to contact your local police. They might have a specific unit for cybercrime or online fraud. Gather all your logs, screenshots, transaction IDs – absolutely everything. It might not feel like it does much, but every report helps build a bigger picture for law enforcement to track these groups. NGL, recovery is hard, but reporting is crucial.

Emily Martin · Dallas, USAanswered 34d ago
25

Lotte, from Utrecht over here, so I get the local context. Please, please, PLEASE be very careful about who you talk to online now. Once you're identified as a victim, you're put on 'sucker lists' that get sold around to other scammers. You'll likely get messages from 'fund recovery specialists' or 'ethical hackers' now, promising to get your 8k back. Every single one of them is a scam. They'll ask for upfront fees, access to your accounts, etc. Just block them all. Your money is probably gone, but don't let them take more.

Mees van Dijk · Utrecht, Netherlandsanswered 34d ago
22

This is truly heartbreaking, Lotte. The emotional manipulation in these scams is insidious. In Ireland, if this happened, we'd be reporting to An Garda Síochána (our national police force) and also to our financial regulator, the Central Bank of Ireland, if the scam involved a regulated entity (which yours didn't, but it's always good practice to check if there's a local equivalent).

For crypto tracing, tools like ChainAbuse *can* provide data, but as others have said, actual recovery is difficult due to the anonymous nature of crypto. However, compiling a thorough report with all tx hashes, wallet addresses, and communication logs is essential. Even if immediate recovery isn't possible, this information significantly aids law enforcement in mapping these criminal networks. Every detail matters for intelligence gathering, even small amounts like 8k contribute to building cases against these groups.

Aoife Murphy · Limerick, Irelandanswered 34d ago
15

Oh wow, another one. These Signal/WhatsApp crypto scams are getting out of hand. From Dubai here, we see a lot of these since it's a global hub. My advice is to act quickly. Your bank might have a fraud department that can help at least block any further outgoing payments if there were any linked accounts or cards. Also, make sure you notify your crypto exchange where you initially purchased the crypto. They sometimes have reporting mechanisms for scam addresses. Don't be ashamed, these people are pros at what they do.

Noor Sheikh · Dubai, UAEanswered 34d ago
18

Lotte, from my experience here in Tilburg, getting that money back is difficult, to put it mildly. But what you *must* do is report it formally. In the Netherlands, that's the police via 'aangifte doen' (filing a police report). Also, contact the Fraudehelpdesk – they're the national coordination point for fraud and can advise you on next steps and where else to report. They can offer emotional support too, because this isn't just financial, it's often a huge betrayal. Make sure to get a case number from them and the police.

Liam de Vries · Tilburg, Netherlandsanswered 34d ago
3

My heart goes out to you, Lotte. I'm from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and I went through something very similar last year, but with a trading platform called dcmmarkets.com. I lost about 4,000 USD after meeting someone on a dating app. The shame is overwhelming, I know. I reported it to the local police here, and they just gave me a case number and said they'd look into it. Honestly, it felt like an empty gesture. They seemed so out of their depth with crypto scams. I haven't heard anything back. I hope you have better luck with the authorities in the Netherlands, but prepare yourself for it to be a tough road.

Emma Smit · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 34d ago
12

Yeah, this is classic romance scam mixed with an investment scam. CoinEgg Pro is a known fake platform. "Stable" growth in crypto usually means it's a scam. The screenshots were likely faked or showed fake growth on a fake site. I'm sorry to say, getting money back after this kind of thing is incredibly difficult, especially when the scammers are overseas. The best bet is to report it, even if you don't get money back, to help prevent others from being targeted. In the Netherlands, you can report fraud to the police and also to the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM). They have a fraud reporting portal. Don't give up on reporting it.

Brandon Williams · Los Angeles, USAanswered 34d ago
8

Oh wow, that's devastating. I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's completely understandable how they could draw you in; these people are experts at building trust. Please don't blame yourself. It happens to so many people. Have you tried contacting your bank? If you paid via bank transfer or sometimes even card, there's a small chance they might be able to help, especially if it was recent enough. It's a long shot but worth a try.

Lily Brown · Brighton, United Kingdomanswered 34d ago
9

Ah, the Signal to 'investment' pipeline. Textbook. They build rapport, make it seem legit with fake proof, then squeeze you for cash. CoinEgg Pro is indeed a scam operation, unfortunately. Don't send them any more money if they ever contact you again claiming you owe more to 'recover' your losses – that's the next stage, a recovery scam. Your 'friend' is long gone or is part of the scam. Reporting is your only real option, but recovery is unlikely in this scenario. For South Africa, if it involved online payment systems, something like Nethertrace might be able to track digital footprints, but don't expect miracles.

Olivia van der Merwe · Cape Town, South Africaanswered 34d ago
5

This sounds like a very common crypto scam. Did you get a specific wallet address for the transfers? Often with these CoinEgg Pro type scams, they just need the money to go somewhere traceable. If it was a direct bank transfer within the EU, the police might be able to do something, but often the scammers are in countries with poor cooperation. I'm not sure about Netherlands specifically, but usually reporting to the national financial regulator or police is the way. How did you find this platform? Was it advertised somewhere or just via your 'friend'?

David Schroder · Hannover, Germanyanswered 34d ago
6

Mate, I've seen this exact setup. Friend on Signal, then boom, the 'amazing profitable platform.' Always a fake. CoinEgg Pro rings no bells and that's usually a bad sign too – legit platforms have some presence. The fact they went dark after you sent savings is the biggest red flag. I'd be surprised if you see that 8k again, tbh. The best you can do is report it to the Dutch police and maybe MAS if you think it's crypto-related in Singapore, but don't hold your breath for recovery.

Michael Nel · Cape Town, South Africaanswered 34d ago
11

This is making my stomach turn because I was almost there. Met someone on Telegram, also talked for months. They pushed a platform called 'GlobalStonkTrades' - sound familiar? It had all the same signs: fake growth charts, pressure for more money. I got cold feet when they asked for another 5k, thankfully. I'd already put in 2k. I refused and they got aggressive. I blocked them. Sent my 2k report to BaFin here in Germany, haven't heard back. You absolutely need to report this to the Dutch authorities. Don't let them win.

Mia Schroder · Munich, Germanyanswered 34d ago
7

I know exactly how you feel. It was only 3k for me, but it was my rent money and looked just like your story. Met 'her' on Insta, then Signal. She showed me 'CryptoTradeX' and how much she was making. Said she'd help me get on my feet. I was young, stupid, and desperate. Invested it all. Then, poof. Gone. My landlord almost kicked me out. I reported it to the BBB through their scam tracker, but it feels like shouting into the void. No help, no money back. It’s been 6 months. I just try to warn everyone I can now.

Steven Williams · Boston, USAanswered 34d ago
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DO NOT communicate further with these people if they try to reach out. They will try to get more money, perhaps with a fake 'withdrawal fee' or 'tax' scam. CoinEgg Pro is absolutely a scam. The 'grow' and 'withdraw' phase is to build your confidence. In France, we report to the AMF and Police Judiciaire. Reporting to Action Fraud in the UK could also be an option if they have UK ties, but since you're in NL, focus there. Reporting to the Dutch police is essential, file it as online fraud. Keep all your chat logs and transaction records.

Lina Richard · Marseille, Franceanswered 34d ago
8

Hey, I'm really sorry this happened to you. It's a terrible feeling, but you're definitely not alone. So many people fall for these investment scams. Since you're in the Netherlands, the first official place to report is the Politie (police). You can file a report online. Also, check if the AFM has a specific reporting form for investment fraud. They are the financial markets authority and definitely want to know about fake platforms like CoinEgg. You did the right thing by coming here to ask. Hang in there.

Noah de Jong · Groningen, Netherlandsanswered 34d ago
9

Lost SGD 5,000 last year to a similar thing. Met a guy on chess.com, moved to WhatsApp, then he introduced me to 'SkyNet Crypto Investments'. Sounded cool, right? Showed me graphs, I did a small transfer, saw it grow, even cashed out $100. Then put in the rest. Next day, account frozen, guy blocked me. Reported to MAS and the police. They said it was likely run from outside Singapore. No recovery. They told me to check ChainAbuse.com for these scam platforms. It's brutal.

Wei Yeo · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 34d ago
13

This is precisely the 'pig butchering' scam. The 'friend' fattens you up with fake profits before slaughtering you. CoinEgg Pro is likely a fraudulent entity designed to look like a real exchange. In Australia, we'd report this to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and the Australian Cyber Security Centre. Given you're in the Netherlands, definitely report to the Dutch police and their financial regulator, the AFM. Keep records of EVERYTHING: Signal chats, transaction IDs, any CoinEgg Pro website details. If they have a physical address listed anywhere, that's a potential lead.

Olivia Anderson · Brisbane, Australiaanswered 34d ago
10

I survived a similar situation, though thankfully I only lost about 1000 euros. Met someone on Facebook dating, talked for weeks. They introduced me to 'SecureCapFx'. It looked so real, even had fake testimonials. I was so excited about the potential returns. When I tried to withdraw my initial deposit plus a small profit, suddenly my account was flagged for 'verification'. They demanded I pay a 'tax' on the profits. That was the moment I knew it was fake. I refused and blocked them. I reported it to Nethertrace – I figured online fraud needed an online tracker, and they provided some good advice though no recovery. It’s an awful feeling, but you did right by stopping.

Camille Simon · Lille, Franceanswered 34d ago
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This is what they call a 'RICO' (Romance Investment Crypto Operation) scam, or 'pig butchering'. CoinEgg Pro is a fake. The screenshots are fake. The initial withdrawal is fake, designed to hook you. Once you invest life savings, they vanish. I reported my scam (lost $10k AUD to 'QuantumFX') to the BBB and AFP. The AFP suggested reporting to ChainAbuse.com too. Honestly, recovery is near zero, but reporting helps build cases against these operations. You might find CoinEgg Pro listed on scam warning sites. Check those out and report to the AFM in NL.

Isla Hughes · Manchester, United Kingdomanswered 34d ago
7

It's tough, I get it. These scammer platforms like CoinEgg Pro are designed to look slick. Did you pay with crypto or fiat? If you paid with crypto, it's almost untraceable. If it was fiat via a bank transfer, that's your best bet for any kind of investigation. I'd report to the Dutch authorities, and maybe look into a service like Nethertrace if you want to explore digital forensics, but manage expectations. Chances are low. Did you happen to save the website URL, IP address, or any contact info for CoinEgg Pro?

Michael Meyer · Stuttgart, Germanyanswered 34d ago
8

I'm so sorry, that's just awful. It's amazing how convincing these people can be. They play on your hopes and loneliness. CoinEgg Pro is a known scam operation. The fact that your 'friend' blocked you and the platform went dark is the classic ending. Similar thing happened to my uncle with 'NovaTradeFX'. He lost £6k. He reported it to Action Fraud and the police, but recovery... well, let's just say he's still paying off the debt. It's a harsh lesson, but please, please be careful with online 'friends' and investment opportunities.

Charlotte Hall · Bristol, United Kingdomanswered 34d ago
9

This is sadly a very common scenario. The 'friend' builds trust over time on a secure platform like Signal, then pitches a fake investment. CoinEgg Pro is almost certainly a shell company designed to steal funds. Your best bet in NL is to file a report with the Politie (Dutch police) and potentially the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM). They maintain lists of unregistered/fraudulent financial service providers. Keep meticulous records of all communications and transactions. Transparency is key when reporting.

Mia Becker · Frankfurt, Germanyanswered 34d ago
6

CoinEgg Pro... let me check my contacts. Nope, doesn't ring a bell as a legit entity. This sounds like a textbook 'pig butchering' scam. They love crypto because it's harder to trace. The initial small withdrawal is a classic tactic to build confidence. Reporting is essential. In Germany, we have BaFin for financial supervision. For the Netherlands, it would be the AFM. Also, report to the police. Did you use a specific crypto exchange to send funds to CoinEgg Pro? That might be a reporting point too.

Khalid Al Suwaidi · Ajman, UAEanswered 34d ago
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This is the worst. Feels like you've been violated, doesn't it? Lost $5k myself to 'MetaWealth Capital' through WhatsApp. Met the scammer on a language exchange app. They convinced me it was a group investment, showed me their 'profits'. I sent it. Then they vanished. Reported it to the UAE police and also checked with a few fraud advisory sites. Nothing. They really need to crack down on these Signal and Telegram scams. The police said online fraud is hard to pursue internationally. I'm sorry you lost so much.

William Thompson · Gold Coast, Australiaanswered 34d ago
10

So sorry to hear this. It's a brutal scam. I was targeted myself by someone offering 'guaranteed' forex trading returns via Telegram, but I spotted the red flags before sending any money. They kept pushing me to download their custom app. My tip? NEVER download an app or software from someone you only know online unless it's from a major, verified app store and you've done extensive research. Official channels ONLY for apps. Report CoinEgg Pro to the Dutch AFM and police immediately. They need to know.

Grace Mokoena · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 34d ago
8

Yeah, that sickening feeling when you realize it's gone. This is exactly the 'pig butchering' scam MO. They build a fake relationship to exploit your trust for financial gain. CoinEgg Pro is a scam platform. In Singapore, we'd report to MAS and the Commercial Affairs Department. For the Netherlands, definitely file with the AFM and the police. Also, consider reporting to ChainAbuse.com. They track crypto scams. Every report helps put pressure on these entities, even if direct recovery is unlikely. Keep all the evidence you have.

Aaron Chua · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 34d ago
7

Oh no, this is a classic romance/investment scam, often called a 'pig butchering' scam. They groom you for weeks or months. CoinEgg Pro? Yeah, that's a known scam platform used by these folks. It's designed to look real, even showing fake profits, until you deposit a significant sum. The 'mutual online group' was likely set up by them to find victims. Unfortunately, recovering money from these scams, especially when they're international and crypto-based, is incredibly difficult. The scammers are long gone, and the crypto is untraceable once it's moved.

Your best bet in the Netherlands is to report it to the Dutch police and possibly the Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM). They might not recover your funds, but reporting helps them track these operations. Nethertrace.co is a private initiative that sometimes helps trace crypto, though success is never guaranteed and there are costs involved. Worth looking into if you have exhausted other options.

Charlotte Fortin · Ottawa, Canadaanswered 34d ago
5

I'm so incredibly sorry this happened to you. It's completely understandable that you feel foolish, but please don't. These scams are sophisticated and play on people's trust and hopes. They build relationships to exploit you. That person on Signal, the fake platform – it's all a carefully constructed deception. It sounds like a romance scam combined with an investmentfraud.

Don't beat yourself up. You were manipulated. The important thing now is what you can do. Reporting is crucial. You can report it to your local police. Also, the AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten) in the Netherlands handles financial misconduct. I know it feels like a long shot for the money, but reporting helps authorities catch these people and protect others. Sending you strength.

Sophia Gagnon · Halifax, Canadaanswered 34d ago
4

Listen, I've seen this movie before. Signal chats, 'stable' crypto platforms, fake growth, then POOF. It's the pig butchering playbook. CoinEgg Pro is likely a fake front. They lure you in with trust, make you feel like you're a savvy investor, and then they take everything. This is not your fault for being trusting. It's their fault for being criminals.

For reporting from SA, we'd usually go to our Hawks and also the FIC (Financial Intelligence Centre). In NL, you need to report to the Politie and possibly the AFM. They might be able to at least track wallet addresses and see if there's any pattern, though actual recovery is tough. Don't send them any more money, even if they promise to 'help' you get it back. That's always another scam.

Sipho van der Merwe · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 34d ago
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This is unfortunately a very common modus operandi for crypto scams. The scammer builds rapport, often masquerading as a romantic interest or a close friend, and then introduces a fake investment opportunity. Signal is a preferred platform because it's encrypted and harder to trace communication. CoinEgg Pro is almost certainly an unregulated, fake exchange designed solely to defraud users. The initial small withdrawal is a classic tactic to build false confidence.

Reporting is essential, even if recovery is unlikely. For you, being in the Netherlands, I'd recommend reporting to the Dutch police (Politie) and possibly the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM). They compile data on these types of fraud. You could also consider reporting on platforms like ChainAbuse, which aggregates scam information.

Andrew Lopez · Atlanta, USAanswered 34d ago
4

Oh, my dear, I am so sorry you've been through this. It sounds absolutely devastating. Please, please be kind to yourself. These scam artists are incredibly skilled at deception and playing on people's emotions and desire for financial security. They build trust painstakingly. The screenshots, the fake growth, even the small withdrawal – it's all part of their manipulative strategy.

You are not alone in this; many people fall victim to these tactics. The important thing is you're seeking help now. Reporting it is a brave step. In the UAE, we have the UAE Central Bank and also the Ministry of Economy. For the Netherlands, reporting to your local police and the AFM is a good place to start. Sending you a big hug and hoping you find some peace.

Aisha Al Nahyan · Abu Dhabi, UAEanswered 34d ago
5

I'm really sorry to hear about your situation. Losing savings is a terrible experience, and the emotional betrayal on top of it must be incredibly painful. It's a well-worn scam tactic: build a connection, promise high returns on crypto (which is volatile and not well-understood by many), and then disappear. CoinEgg Pro sounds like a made-up platform solely for this scam.

In Singapore, we'd report to MAS (Monetary Authority of Singapore) and our police. For you in the Netherlands, the police are your first point of call. The AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten) is also the relevant financial regulator. They need to know about these fake platforms. While getting the money back is tough, reporting helps authorities build cases and shut down these operations.

Wei Lau · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 34d ago
8

I feel this so deeply. I lost a similar amount to a 'forex trading' scam about three years ago, met on a dating app. They even had a fake platform that looked so real. The shame is the worst part, isn't it? You feel like an idiot, but honestly, they are the scum. They prey on kindness and optimism. That Signal friendship was all an act. And CoinEgg Pro? Total fake.

Reporting it helped me feel a tiny bit of power back. I reported to Action Fraud in the UK, which is where I was living then. For you in Holland, definitely report to the Politie and the AFM. It didn't get my money back, not even close, but knowing I did something felt good. Stay strong. You'll get through this.

Rachel Thompson · Glasgow, United Kingdomanswered 33d ago
7

Same happened to me, also from NL! Met someone on a language exchange app, moved to WhatsApp, then Telegram. They showed me 'GoldenTree Invest'. Looked glossy. Put in €5k. Then boom, gone. Felt like such a fool. The police were polite but said crypto recovery is nearly impossible. They did take my report though.

I also tried reporting CoinEgg Pro directly to the AFM. They put it on their warning list eventually, so maybe that stops one or two others. It's so frustrating. I haven't recovered a cent and still feel sick about it sometimes. Keep your chin up, ok? We're not the only ones.

Daan Meijer · Groningen, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
3

Wait — CoinEgg Pro? That sounds dodgy. Honestly, if it's a platform you've never heard of, especially one pushed by someone you met online, alarm bells should be ringing. Did you do any searches on CoinEgg Pro before investing? Like, did you look for reviews on independent sites? Or check if it's regulated by any actual financial authority? This 'stable' crypto thing is usually code for 'we're going to steal your money'.

I'm not going to say reporting will get your money back, 'cause let's be real, it probably won't. But I guess you *could* report it to the Dutch police. Or maybe even look up if the EFF (Electronic Frontier Foundation) has resources on reporting online scams, though they're more about digital rights. Ngl, I'm skeptical you'll get much traction.

Saar de Vries · Tilburg, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
3

Ugh, this is rough. A 'friend' from Signal who pushes investments? Red flag. A 'stable' crypto platform with no easily verifiable track record? Bigger red flag. 'CoinEgg Pro' sounds like a made-up name. They probably control both ends of the chat and the platform. The small withdrawal is pure manipulation to get you to trust them with your life savings. I'm really sorry.

Hate to be a downer, but the chances of recovering €8k in crypto from random scammers like this are practically zero. The money's likely laundered through mixers or spent. You *can* report it, but don't expect miracles. Maybe check with the BBB (Better Business Bureau) if they have any international scam reporting or liaisons? They're usually pretty good at tracking this stuff in the US, at least.

Tyler Walker · Portland, USAanswered 33d ago
5

This is heartbreaking to read. I am sending you so much support. Please don't feel ashamed. You were targeted by sophisticated scammers who exploit trust. The 'friendship' on Signal, the fake platform 'CoinEgg Pro', the promises of stability – it's all designed to manipulate you. They are the ones who should be ashamed.

Reporting is the right thing to do. In France, we'd go to the AMF (Autorité des Marchés Financiers) or Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr. For the Netherlands, the police and the AFM are good starting points. Even if recovery is difficult, your report might help others. Be kind to yourself. You're strong for reaching out.

Louis Moreau · Bordeaux, Franceanswered 33d ago
6

This is the exact same story as my cousin's friend. Met on Telegram, then moved to a dodgy 'investment' site called 'WealthyCoin'. He lost about 10k GBP. They used fake screenshots and promised insane returns. He even got his spouse to put in money too. The 'friend' just vanished one day when he asked for a larger withdrawal.

He reported it to Action Fraud (UK equivalent of your police for fraud). They said crypto recovery is extremely difficult, but they logged it. They also recommended reporting to ChainAbuse.com. I don't know if Nethertrace.co operates in NL, but it's worth a look, although it can be costly. Don't blame yourself – they are very good at what they do.

Michael Schulz · Cologne, Germanyanswered 33d ago
5

A relative of mine fell for something similar, though it was 'Forex trading' and not crypto. Met on Facebook, then WhatsApp. The platform looked super professional. They lost a good chunk of their pension fund. It was devastating. The key takeaway for them was: ALWAYS verify any platform independently. Check financial regulators like BaFin (Germany) or the AFM (Netherlands) to see if they are licensed. If it's an obscure crypto exchange, it's almost certainly a scam.

Reporting to the police is important for data collection. They might not get the money back, but it adds to the picture for law enforcement. Maybe look into Nethertrace, too. They focus on crypto tracing.

Mohammed Al Maktoum · Ras Al Khaimah, UAEanswered 33d ago
5

Oh goodness, I'm so sorry reading this. I was scammed too, maybe about a year ago. Lost around AUD $4000 on a fake 'stock trading' app. Met the person on Instagram! They were so convincing, so charming. The fake app showed my money 'growing'. Then when I wanted to cash out a reasonable amount, they asked for 'taxes' or 'fees' – another classic!). Then they disappeared.

I reported it to Scamwatch Australia and the police. They said recovery chances were slim. Don't let the shame eat you up. These people are professional liars. For the Netherlands, reporting to your national police and the AFM is the correct step. You did nothing wrong but trust someone who was a complete fraud. Sending you strength.

Mia Walker · Darwin, Australiaanswered 33d ago
6

This is really upsetting. When I was younger, I almost fell for this. Met someone on a dating site, we chatted for weeks, they introduced me to a 'crypto mining opportunity'. It was called 'QuantumMinerz' or something. They had charts and everything. I got suspicious when they kept pushing me to get a 'premium account' before I could withdraw anything. That was my cue to run.

It's a 'pig butchering' scam, for sure. They build trust and then drain your funds. Reporting is key. In the UK, it's Action Fraud. For the Netherlands, report to the Politie and the AFM. That platform, CoinEgg Pro, is almost certainly unregulated and fake. Protect your digital wallet and never share seeding phrases or private keys. That's a hard rule.

Charlie Evans · Bristol, United Kingdomanswered 33d ago
4

I've seen so many people fall for these situations, and it always breaks my heart. 'CoinEgg Pro' sounds like a fake platform designed to mimic legitimate exchanges. They often use social media or messaging apps like Signal to build a fake relationship, then lure victims into investing in these fake platforms. They might even allow small withdrawals initially to build trust, as you experienced.

In France, you'd report to the AMF or France's cybersecurity agency. For you in the Netherlands, the AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten) is the body that deals with financial scams. They maintain a list of unauthorized investment firms. Reporting it is crucial, even if recovery is difficult. I wish you the best in navigating this.

Raphael Robert · Strasbourg, Franceanswered 33d ago
5

This is heartbreaking. I see this too often from my work. These aren't 'friends'; they are predators. They use Signal because it's encrypted and offers a sense of privacy, which they exploit. CoinEgg Pro is almost certainly a fake, ghost platform. The fake profit and small withdrawal are classic lures. They want you to feel comfortable before they take the big chunk.

Your best course of action is immediate reporting. In Ireland, you can report to the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and the Central Bank of Ireland. For the Netherlands, officially report to the Politie (Dutch police) and the AFM. They might not recover your funds, but these reports are vital for tracking and disrupting these criminal networks. Don't blame yourself – this is about their criminal actions.

Saoirse Sullivan · Belfast, Irelandanswered 33d ago
3

Yeah, this is a classic pig butchering scam. You met them online, built 'trust', then they showed you a fake platform (CoinEgg Pro). They probably own the platform too. The initial small withdrawal is to make you feel confident, like it's legit. Then *bam*, they block you and take your money. It's a brutal scam.

Honestly, don't get your hopes up too high about getting the money back. Crypto is designed for anonymity and quick transfers across borders, making it a nightmare to trace. You *should* report it to the police. Maybe check out ChainAbuse.com again. They catalogue these scams. Also, the BBB (Better Business Bureau) in the US sometimes has info on international scams, so worth a look.

Daniel Lopez · Chicago, USAanswered 33d ago
3

Oh, this sounds incredibly painful. I've heard similar stories from friends who were also targeted via Signal/WhatsApp. The 'stable' crypto investment is always the bait. CoinEgg Pro? Never heard of it - which is often a sign. For what it's worth, the sheer *volume* of these kinds of stories makes me think actual recovery of funds is astronomically low.

Did you happen to check if CoinEgg Pro was listed on any financial watchdog sites? Like the AF M (Autoriteit Financiële Markten) in your country? They often have warnings out. Your best bet is reporting it to the police and the AFM. They might not get your money back, but it's important data for them. Stay strong, ok?

Lucas Morin · Edmonton, Canadaanswered 33d ago
7

Ugh, CoinEgg is a known scam. They pop up under different names all the time. And the Signal to investment platform is a classic playbook. I'm sorry you went through this, really.

For reporting in the Netherlands, you need to go through the Politie (Dutch police). They have a specific department for cybercrime and economic offenses. You can file a report online through their website. While recovery is tough, reporting helps build cases against these operations. Also, consider reporting to ChainAbuse; they track these crypto scams and the data helps law enforcement.

One thing to remember for the future: *never* invest in platforms recommended by someone you met online, especially if they push for quick or guaranteed high returns. Always do your own due diligence on the platform's legitimacy and regulatory status. A real, regulated exchange won't be promoted on Signal by a 'friend'.

Saoirse Quinn · Limerick, Irelandanswered 33d ago
3

Oh man, 8k euros is a lot. I'm so sorry this happened to you. It's easy to feel stupid, but these scammers are professionals at manipulation. They prey on connection and trust, building it up over weeks or months.

Don't beat yourself up. The fact that you tested it first shows you were being careful. They just adapted their scam. For reporting from NL, I'd say check with your local police, but also look into the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM). They might not be able to get your money back directly, but they track these fraud cases. Maybe they have resources or advice specific to your situation. Stay strong, mate. It's a hard lesson, but you'll get through it.

Khalid Al Suwaidi · Ras Al Khaimah, UAEanswered 33d ago
9

This sounds exactly like a pig butchering scam. They are incredibly sophisticated. They 'feed' you with small wins to make you trust them, then they 'slaughter' you by having you invest a large sum before disappearing.

CoinEgg is not a real exchange; it's a fake front. The site itself is programmed to show fake profits. The real money never actually goes into any market, it just goes into the scammer's pockets.

Red flag: Anyone who insists on using Signal or Telegram for investment discussions or promotes a specific, unverified platform is almost certainly a scammer. Legitimate financial advisors don't operate like that. Always stick to regulated exchanges for crypto investments, and even then, be extremely cautious. Sadly, recouping funds from these international crypto scams is very difficult, but reporting is essential. You can report to the Dutch police and possibly Action Fraud in the UK if there's any perceived link there.

Lea Schafer · Hamburg, Germanyanswered 33d ago
6

Welcome to the club, unfortunately. I lost about 12k USD to a similar scam last year, met on a gaming forum, moved to WhatsApp, then to a fake trading platform. They were so convincing. I got my avatar picture stolen, my whole persona. It took me months to even talk about it.

I'm in France. I reported it to my local police and the AMF France, but honestly, getting the money back felt like a long shot, which it was. The platform was fake, the trades were fake.

What helped me a little was talking to people who went through similar things. There are online forums, even some Facebook groups, where people share their experiences. Nethertrace.co is also something I found later; they track scams and might have info or resources. Don't give up entirely, but manage expectations about getting the money back. Focus on reporting and healing.

Louis Richard · Toulouse, Franceanswered 33d ago
5

Oh no, this is heartbreaking. And CoinEgg is definitely a scam platform. They are notorious. The pattern you described – the Signal contact, the fake growth, the sudden disappearance – is textbook. I'm based in Singapore, and we see these scams globally.

My advice is to disconnect completely. Block the number, block any associated social media. Don't engage further. Then, report it to the Dutch police's cybercrime unit. They are the primary contact for financial fraud within the Netherlands. Also, consider filing a report with MAS (Monetary Authority of Singapore) if there's any indication the operation had servers or links to Singapore, though this is a long shot. Honestly, the chances of recovery are slim, but reporting helps authorities identify and potentially dismantle these networks eventually. Be kind to yourself.

Hannah Chan · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 33d ago
6

I feel this so hard. In 2022, I lost my college savings, around 15k CAD, to a very similar crypto scam. It was via Discord, then Telegram. They called the platform 'CryptoFX Capital' – probably related. They showed me realistic-looking trading charts, even let me withdraw a small amount. Then poof. Gone.

I reported it to the RCMP here in Canada and the BBB, but it went nowhere. The amount of money lost globally to these things is astronomical. You are definitely not alone.

One thing I learned the hard way: if someone you met online, especially on social apps like Signal or Telegram, starts talking about investment opportunities, *run*. Especially crypto. And if they show you screenshots of high returns, it's almost always fake. Always, always use a registered, well-known exchange like Binance or Kraken, and even then, only invest what you can afford to lose. For reporting in NL, check the FIOD (Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service).

Mia Lavoie · Edmonton, Canadaanswered 33d ago
5

This is so painful to read. I was you, basically. Lost my emergency fund, nearly R500k, to a fake forex platform pushed through Facebook Messenger. They were so charming, so convincing. I even spoke to a fake 'account manager' on Zoom.

I reported it to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Action Fraud UK (because the website domain was registered there). Nothing came of it in terms of getting money back, but the SAPS did take a statement. It felt like shouting into the void, tbh.

My one piece of advice, beyond the obvious 'don't trust strangers online with money', is to watch out for pressure tactics. They'll say things like 'the market is moving fast, you need to invest now!' or 'this is a limited-time opportunity'. That's a huge red flag. Real investments don't usually have that kind of urgency imposed on them. You did well by testing with a small amount first.

Naledi du Plessis · Pretoria, South Africaanswered 33d ago
4

I am so sorry for your loss. It is devastating. I had a similar experience a few years ago, losing about $20,000 USD to a fake precious metals investment scheme arranged via WhatsApp. They had a slick website, professional-looking documents... it all seemed so legitimate. My 'investor mentor' even had video calls with me.

Reporting options can be difficult when the perpetrators are overseas. In the UAE, we have the Central Bank, but they mainly regulate legitimate institutions. For international scams like this, the best bet is usually to report to your local police, as you've done. They might have international cooperation agreements. The FBI in the US also has an IC3 portal for reporting cybercrime, which is worth looking into if there's any US connection at all. Don't lose all hope, but focus on safety and reporting.

Omar Sheikh · Abu Dhabi, UAEanswered 33d ago
6

Man, I feel this. I lost about €6,000 to a fake stock trading app that was pushed on me through a dating app, unbelievably. The person seemed so normal, we even met for coffee once. Then they slid into the investment talk. The platform looked amazing, like Robinhood but better, they said. It was called 'ApexInvest'.

After I lost my money, I tried everything. Reported to the German police (Polizei), contacted BaFin. BaFin told me they couldn't help directly with recovery but advised reporting to the police. They also maintain a warning list of unauthorized companies. Always check that list! This 'CoinEgg Pro' sounds like a carbon copy. The key takeaway for me was realizing that even someone you connect with on a personal level can be a scammer. It's a harsh truth. You are not alone in this.

Niklas Schulz · Cologne, Germanyanswered 33d ago
7

This is a classic 'romance scam' combined with an 'investment scam'. They build emotional connection first, then exploit financial vulnerability. CoinEgg is not a legitimate platform; I’ve seen it flagged on multiple anti-scam forums. The screenshots they showed you were probably fake or manipulated. The initial small withdrawal was likely allowed to build trust – a common tactic.

From the UAE, reporting options politically are limited for direct recovery of foreign crypto scams. While bodies like the UAE Central Bank oversee financial institutions, they can't easily chase international fraudsters. Report to the Dubai Police or Abu Dhabi Police anyway; it adds to the aggregate data on these crimes. Also, report to ChainAbuse.org. They are a community-driven platform that logs crypto scam incidents and can provide an overview of similar frauds happening. Warning: *Never* trust investment advice or platforms pushed via social media or messaging apps. Look for regulated entities and independent research.

Hassan Khan · Ras Al Khaimah, UAEanswered 33d ago
8

This is awful. I'm sorry you're going through this. CoinEgg Pro is indeed a scam. It's a fake platform designed to look like a legitimate crypto exchange. The 'profits' you saw were fabricated, and your money went directly to the scammers. They operate globally, often using social media and messaging apps like Signal to build rapport before pushing the fake investment.

In France, you would report this to Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr. This is the national platform for reporting cyber threats and seeking advice. You can also report to AMF France (Autorité des Marchés Financiers), though their focus is more on regulated entities. They might still have information or be able to flag the platform.

Crucially, never invest based solely on someone's recommendation or screenshots. Always verify the platform's regulatory status with the relevant financial authorities in your country. For NL, check the AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten). If a platform isn't listed or registered, it's a massive red flag.

Alice Martin · Lille, Franceanswered 33d ago
4

Oh mate, that's rough. Losing your savings like that, especially when you thought you'd found a friend, is just the worst. I'm in Oz, and we see so many of these crypto scams over here too.

Don't feel stupid. These people are slick operators. They get you emotionally invested first. I lost a few grand a couple of years back to a 'forex signal group' on Telegram. Sounded legit, then they wanted me to use their 'partner broker'. Big mistake.

For reporting internationally, it's tricky. In Aus, we have ACSC (Australian Cyber Security Centre) and ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission). Have a look on the Dutch National Police website (Politie) for their cybercrime reporting section. They often have links to international cooperation bodies. The main thing now is to secure your accounts and maybe change your phone number if you were using that for Signal. Stay strong.

Charlie Taylor · Hobart, Australiaanswered 33d ago
5

CoinEgg Pro is a scam. That's the short answer. They're part of a larger network of fake crypto platforms. The fact that you were contacted via Signal and then directed to a specific platform is a huge red flag. They build trust with small wins and then empty your account. It’s a terrible situation to be in.

I was scammed nearly $7,000 USD a while back. Met the person on Instagram, they convinced me to invest in what they called 'Global Wealth FX'. They were based in the UK, ironically. I reported it to Action Fraud UK, filled out their online form. It felt like it vanished into the ether, but they are the official channel. For someone in the Netherlands, your primary reporting agency is the Politie. Report every detail you can remember about the scammer and the platform.

Conor Smith · Limerick, Irelandanswered 33d ago
6

This is such a common scam, and it’s gutting every time someone falls for it. They build this 'friendship' first, making you feel safe and looked after, then BAM – the investment pitch. CoinEgg Pro is on so many warning lists. Did they use specific terminology? Like mentioning 'liquidity pools' or 'arbitrage trading'? Scammers love buzzwords.

I know someone who lost a similar amount. In the end, they filed a report with their local police and also contacted ChainAbuse. They said ChainAbuse had a lot of information on similar scams and tactics. It didn't get the money back, but it gave them a sense of doing *something*.

For the Netherlands, you should definitely report to the FIOD (Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service) as well as the regular police. They handle financial crimes and might have insights. It’s vital to report, even if recovery seems unlikely.

Arthur Lefebvre · Nantes, Franceanswered 33d ago
5

Oh no, I am so sorry. I went through something very similar last year. Lost about R30,000. It was a fake forex platform called 'Quantum Trade FX'. They found me through a shared hobby group online. It took me months to even admit to myself what had happened. The shame is terrible.

Reporting is important, so don't stop there. I contacted the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), but they mainly regulate banks. My biggest tip for reporting is Nethertrace.co – they helped me collate all the evidence and trace some of the blockchain activity, even though we couldn't recover the funds. They're good people. For the Netherlands, definitely report to the Politie. They have specific units for cybercrime. Keep all your Signal chats, email logs, anything related to CoinEgg Pro. That's your evidence.

Connor Mokoena · Durban, South Africaanswered 33d ago
6

It's CoinEgg, isn't it? Yes, this is a pure scam. They create these fake platforms that look incredibly real. The communication via Signal is also a massive indicator. They want to isolate you from official channels and scrutiny. I lost €7,000 to a platform called 'Global Crypto Assets' that operated the same way.

I reported it to the German police, and they were sympathetic but ultimately said recovery from overseas crypto scams is extremely unlikely. They advised me to report to BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority). BaFin maintains a list of unauthorized companies and can issue warnings, which might help others. They also encourage reporting of any suspicious financial activity. The feeling of helplessness is overwhelming, I know.

Look for resources specific to the Netherlands. The AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten) is likely your best bet for official warnings and reporting, besides the police.

Lea Weber · Cologne, Germanyanswered 33d ago
5

This is heartbreaking. I lost $10k to a similar crypto scheme just last summer. Met a 'woman' on Facebook, she convinced me to invest in 'Elite Coin Market'. Same story: small win, big loss. They were so good at playing the long game, building trust.

I reported it to the FBI's IC3 portal here in the US. It's the Internet Crime Complaint Center. They collect reports nationally. They couldn't recover my funds, but they did send me a case number and said they share data with international law enforcement. It didn't feel like much at the time, but I guess it's part of the bigger picture.

My advice: NEVER send crypto or wire money based on a recommendation from someone you met online, no matter how nice they seem, or how convincing their fake platform looks. Stick to reputable, regulated exchanges. If it sounds too good to be true, it absolutely is. You learn this lesson the really hard way.

Steven Lopez · Austin, USAanswered 33d ago
4

I am so sorry to hear this. It's a horrible thing to go through, but please know you are not alone. I lost CAD $5,000 to a fake crypto mining operation that contacted me through Instagram DMs. They had a slick website and promised guaranteed returns. It felt so real. The platform was called 'Bit-Mine Pro'.

I reported it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). They are the main hub for fraud reporting in Canada. They couldn't recover the money, but they logged the complaint and provided advice. For the Netherlands, you should report to the Politie and also check if there's a similar national fraud reporting centre like the CAFC.

My biggest red flag now is anyone who pushes unsolicited investment opportunities, especially via private messaging apps like Signal or Telegram. They isolate you. Always do your own research on a platform and check if it's regulated. Legitimacy checks are key. You'll get through this.

Ava Smith · Darwin, Australiaanswered 33d ago
7

This is exactly what happened to me! CoinEgg Pro is a sham. Met someone on a language exchange app, we talked for weeks, then they mentioned this 'amazing' investment. Lost about €9,000. It was my rent money and then some. I felt like such an idiot.

I reported it to the Dutch police, but honestly, they offered little hope. Someone suggested looking into Nethertrace.co – they apparently help track crypto scams. I haven’t gone down that path yet, still too upset.

My advice: if they start talking about crypto investments after only knowing you a short time and it wasn’t the initial reason you connected, it's a scam. Especially if they push you to use a specific platform. Just block and report. Don't let them gaslight you into thinking it's your fault. It’s THEIR crime.

Jacob MacDonald · Winnipeg, Canadaanswered 33d ago
15

This CoinEgg Pro platform sounds like a classic crypto rug pull, sadly. The whole 'mutual online group' to Signal and then 'investment advice' is a well-trodden path for these scams. The initial small profit and withdrawal is a tactic to build trust before the big hit. Since you're in the Netherlands, your primary reporting bodies would be the Dutch police (Politie) and potentially the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM) - though they usually focus on regulated entities. You can file a report online with the Politie, which is the first step for any potential investigation, however unlikely a full recovery might be. Also, keep records of EVERYTHING: chat logs, transaction IDs, crypto wallet addresses, the fake platform's URLs. This is crucial if any form of justice, however small, is to be pursued.

Liam Sullivan · Galway, Irelandanswered 33d ago
12

I know exactly how you feel. I lost about 6k CAD to something similar a year ago. Met someone on Facebook, moved to WhatsApp. They pitched this 'guaranteed returns' forex thing. Said I was lucky to get in early. I even bought them a nice bottle of wine with the little bit I took out first. Then poof. Gone. My ex-wife still brings it up sometimes, 'Remember that online scam wine, huh?'. It's a devastating feeling, like you've let yourself down bad. For reporting in SA, we have the Hawks but honestly, direct reporting to the SAPS financial crimes unit is probably best. They might not recover it, but it helps them track the patterns. Don't beat yourself up too much, these guys are professionals at manipulation. They prey on trust.

Sipho Naidoo · Pretoria, South Africaanswered 33d ago
13

Listen, I've seen this play out too many times, especially with crypto. The Signal, the private chats, the fake platform – it’s all designed to isolate you and give them control. They *want* you to feel ashamed, it stops you from reporting. They likely used a fake front, something like CoinEgg, to hide the real operators. Your only real hope for *any* action is reporting it to the Dutch police. Also, check out ChainAbuse; they track crypto scams and might have info on CoinEgg or similar outfits. Don't expect your money back, sadly. These operations are often overseas, making recovery near impossible. The main thing now is to warn others. Block any and all direct contact, and don't even look at similar offers again.

Oliver Hughes · Nottingham, United Kingdomanswered 33d ago
11

Oh honey, I’m so sorry this happened to you. It’s not your fault, really. These people are sociopaths who are *amazing* at grooming. I was duped into a fake investment last year too, lost nearly all my emergency fund. I thought I was so smart, you know? I even bragged a little to my sister about my "high returns." She’d probably tell you to file a police report in LA, and yeah, you should. But honestly? The best thing I did was find a support group. Talking to others who've been through it… it helped me feel less alone and less like a complete idiot. We used Nethertrace for advice on reporting steps. It’s a tough road, but you're not the only one.

Megan Young · Los Angeles, USAanswered 33d ago
10

Heel vervelend om te horen! Iemand die je online ontmoet en je dan direct naar een investeringsplatform stuurt, dat is al een grote rode vlag. Vooral als het om crypto gaat, die wereld is nog erg ondoorzichtig. In Nederland kun je in dit soort gevallen het beste aangifte doen bij de politie. Dat kan online via hun website. Bewaar ook alle communicatie, screenshots, transactiegegevens – alles wat je hebt. De Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM) is er meer voor gereguleerde financiële producten, maar het is altijd goed om ze ook te informeren, misschien hebben zij een waarschuwing over CoinEgg. Sterkte ermee, het is een flinke klap.

Noah Mulder · Eindhoven, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
9

Reading this makes my stomach turn. I fell for a similar scam a few years back through Instagram direct messages. Lost about $5k. They used a fake trading platform too, looked incredibly real. They even sent me official-looking emails. The key red flag I missed? They _only_ wanted to communicate via DM or their own private app. Any legitimate financial advisor or platform will have multiple contact methods AND regulatory information readily available. For reporting, since you're in the US, you'd file with the SEC and CFTC, and also your local police. In NL, definitely the police. It feels like a total loss, but reporting helps build cases. Don't let shame stop you.

Kevin Jackson · Miami, USAanswered 33d ago
14

Ah, the Signal scam. It’s a popular one right now. I lost 3,000 euros last year through something similar that originated on Telegram, ended up on a platform called 'Goldex,' which I now know is a total fake. The worst part was how they manipulated my emotions, made me feel like I was part of something exclusive. My partner came home and saw me obsessively checking the fake charts; he was furious. I reported it to Action Fraud in the UK and also filed a complaint with AMF France (since the scammers claimed to be based there, which was a lie). Recovery is unlikely, but reporting is vital. They might also have a crypto-focused complaint channel.

Lucas Thomas · Toulouse, Franceanswered 33d ago
8

8k euros? Ouch. And from someone you 'talked to for months'? Yeah, they don't get much more sophisticated than that. It's easy to say 'be skeptical,' but when someone's building that kind of rapport, it's tough. Still, the rule is: if it sounds too good to be true, it is. Especially with crypto – if they can't show you proof of real-world regulatory oversight (like SEC registration in the US or similar), walk away. Reporting to the Dutch police is the way to go. Don't hold your breath for the money, but at least it's on record. BBB might be useful if the scammers ever try to set up a 'legit' front business, but unlikely.

William Harris · Newcastle, Australiaanswered 33d ago
11

I'm really sorry for your loss. This is a very common scam, unfortunately. The scammers often use social engineering techniques to build trust, and then introduce these fake investment platforms. For reporting in France, you'd typically go through the Police Nationale or the Signal-Arnaques website. Have you checked if this 'CoinEgg Pro' has any sort of presence or history on sites like Reddit or crypto forums? Sometimes other victims post warnings. AMF France might not be able to help directly with a private scam like this, but they are the authority for financial market issues. Remember, legitimate platforms don't pressure you for more money, and they certainly don't block you when things go south.

Emma Laurent · Bordeaux, Franceanswered 33d ago
7

Right, so you met on Signal, which is already a red flag for serious investment discussions. Real advisors don't operate solely on encrypted chat apps. And 'CoinEgg Pro'? Never heard of it, which isn't a great sign if it's supposed to be a 'stable' platform. Even legit crypto exchanges have faced issues. Did this 'friend' pressure you rapidly? That's another sign. Seriously, report it to the Dutch police. They often liaise with international agencies. As for recovery... don't get your hopes up too high. They're probably long gone. You might check with ChainAbuse, they sometimes have intel on scam operations.

Charlotte Williams · Perth, Australiaanswered 33d ago
10

Take a deep breath. It's incredibly easy to get caught up in these schemes, especially when someone seems like a friend. Losing money hurts, financially and emotionally. In France, report it to the Police Judiciaire or through the platform PHAROS. Also, look for French consumer protection groups. They might not recover your funds but can offer guidance and log the incident. Never, ever let anyone rush you into an investment. If they push, it's a sign to pause and investigate thoroughly. Check for reviews on independent sites, not just ones they link to.

Leo Bernard · Paris, Franceanswered 33d ago
14

This sounds exactly like the 'pig butchering' scam. They build a relationship over time, gain your trust, and then introduce you to a fake investment that they control. You're not stupid; you were manipulated. You mentioned the Netherlands, so reporting to the Dutch police is key. You can also look into services like Nethertrace.co, they specialize in crypto recovery and consulting for victims in Europe. They might be able to advise on specific reporting channels or even trace activity, though crypto recovery is incredibly difficult. The key thing they stress is acting fast and preserving all digital evidence.

Niamh Sullivan · Belfast, Irelandanswered 33d ago
16

From an expert standpoint, this is Textbook. The scenario you describe matches the 'pig butchering' scam profile precisely. The social media contact, extended private messaging (Signal is favored for its privacy/encryption, making it harder to trace), gradual introduction of a fake investment, and the final disappearance of both the contact and the platform. Your primary recourse is reporting to the Nederlandse Politie. They have departments that handle cybercrime. Also, consider filing with the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) if there's evidence of cross-border activity. Don't forget to check if MAS (Monetary Authority of Singapore) has any advisories, as many of these operations originate in Southeast Asia, even if they target Europeans.

Sophie Pretorius · Durban, South Africaanswered 33d ago
12

Mate, I lost R150,000 to a fake trading bot sold through Facebook ads. Paid for it, installed it, and it just… didn't work. Their support was useless, then they went offline. I was devastated. My wife was furious, but she also helped me file a report with the SAPS (South African Police Service)’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks). Took ages, and no money back, but it’s what you have to do. For you, in NL, definitely report to the Politie. The trick these scammers use is making you feel ashamed so you don't report. Don't let them win twice. And NEVER trust anyone who slides into your DMs with 'investment opportunities'. Ever.

Ryan Hall · New York, USAanswered 33d ago
11

Wow, 8k euros. That is absolutely brutal. I lost $10k last year to a fake crypto mining operation I found on Reddit. They sent me fake screenshots of my 'mining rig' making money. The initial deposit seemed to grow, and I even got one small withdrawal. Then, when I put in the bulk of my savings, they vanished. Blocked on all comms. I reported it to the FBI's IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) and also contacted ChainAbuse. They might not get your money back, but it’s crucial to report these scams. They need data to track the patterns. Sometimes they can freeze assets if they catch them quickly enough, but that's rare.

Maryam Al Mansoori · Dubai, UAEanswered 33d ago
10

This is a very common scam, unfortunately. Many victims are targeted via social media or dating apps, then moved to encrypted messaging apps like Signal or Telegram. The fake platform 'CoinEgg Pro' is likely just a front. Keep all records of your conversations, transaction details, and any details about the platform. In the UAE, we'd report to the cybercrime division of the police. For the Netherlands, the Politie is your first step. You can also check if there are specific financial crime units. Don't feel ashamed; these scams are designed to exploit human trust and kindness. The key is reporting it and warning others.

Isabella Bergeron · Vancouver, Canadaanswered 33d ago
9

This story hits hard. I lost about $7,000 last year to a similar dating app scam that morphed into a fake investment. Met someone, seemed legit, then they introduced me to a 'forex trading platform.' They even 'gifted' me some initial funds to show how it worked. Then came the big push for my savings. When it all collapsed, they disappeared. I reported it to the RCMP and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. They didn't recover my money, but it's important to log it. You mentioned the Netherlands; reporting to your local police is essential. Also, never trust investment advice from someone you met online, no matter how friendly they seem.

Joshua Smit · Port Elizabeth, South Africaanswered 33d ago
8

Yeah, this sounds like a total scam. 'Stable' crypto platform? LOL. Nothing about crypto is truly stable, and if someone promises it, run. Especially if they meet you on Signal. That's the big giveaway. Did they use crypto to send money? Because if so, tracking it is a nightmare. Action Fraud in the UK is where I'd report something like this. For you in the Netherlands, your police are the main port of call. Honestly, chances of getting that 8k back are slim to none unless they catch the scammers red-handed with the funds, which is rare. Just make sure you report it via the official channels.

Chloe Durand · Lyon, Franceanswered 33d ago
11

Oh man, I feel for you. I went through something super similar a few months ago. Met a guy on a gaming forum, moved to WhatsApp, then he showed me this amazing crypto thing. I put in like 2k euros, and it seemed to grow. He even let me withdraw 100 euros. Then I went all in with my rent money, and bam! Gone. His profile vanished. I was so angry at myself. In France, I reported it to the Police and also checked Signal-Arnaques, which is a victim support site. They connected me with some resources. It’s a horrid feeling, but you’re definitely not alone. Maybe look for a Dutch victim support group online?

Liam de Groot · Amsterdam, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
10

This is exactly the kind of thing that happened to me. I lost about $9,000 USD to a fake crypto exchange called 'AlphaTradeX' that I found through someone on Instagram. They were super convincing, had all the fake login pages and everything. I even showed my dad the 'profits' I was making, and he was impressed. Then one day, the site was down, and the person who recommended it blocked me. I reported it to the FBI's IC3. For you in the Netherlands, reporting to your local police is your best bet. They might not recover your funds but reporting helps authorities track these criminal networks. It's a really tough lesson, unfortunately.

Lukas Schroder · Berlin, Germanyanswered 33d ago
2

Oh OP, that's absolutely awful. I know it's hard to see it now, but you're not stupid. These scams are designed to be convincing. The 'test withdrawal' is such a classic hook.

For reporting in NL, start with the Dutch police (Politie). You can file a report online, and sometimes they cooperate with international agencies. Also, consider reporting to the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM), even if they don't directly handle fraud cases, they track fraudulent platforms. Don't give up.

Nethertrace.co might be able to help too, they specialize in this kind of thing from the Netherlands.

Sarah Jackson · Houston, USAanswered 33d ago
1

This sounds exactly like the 'pig butchering' scam. They build trust over time, make it seem like a real investment, and then disappear. I'm so sorry you went through this. It's a huge loss and I can only imagine the pain.

It's a tough road, but reporting it is important, even if recovery seems unlikely. Start with your local police. In France, we have AMF for financial markets, but for fraud itself, it's often the police and maybe a specialized unit. Don't let them make you feel ashamed, these people are predators.

Raphael Simon · Marseille, Franceanswered 33d ago
1

CoinEgg Pro, huh? Never heard of it. And Signal. Yeah, that sets off alarm bells for me. So they showed you screenshots and you withdrew a little. That's how they get you. That small win makes you feel secure.

Honestly, 8k euros vanishing into crypto with a 'friend' you met online? The odds of getting that back are slim to none, especially if they're overseas. What was it, like a USDT or ETH thing? If you can remember the exact token, sometimes there are blockchain explorers, but tracking down the person is the hard part.

Brian King · Austin, USAanswered 33d ago
2

Ugh, CoinEgg Pro sounds like another one of those fake crypto platforms. The Signal connection is a huge red flag too. They cultivate relationships to exploit trust. This is a brutal lesson, and I'm so sorry you're dealing with it.

If you're in the UK, we have Action Fraud, but for NL, it's definitely your national police. Make sure to get a crime reference number. Sometimes, if it's a large sum, they might pursue it, but often these scams are designed to be international and difficult to track. Keep all your chat logs and transaction details handy.

Emily Wood · Bristol, United Kingdomanswered 33d ago
1

Wait — CoinEgg Pro? I swear I saw a post about that on Reddit a few months ago. People reporting losses. They said it was all fake. Signal is their preferred app because it’s encrypted and they can just delete everything easily.

I’m not trying to be a downer, but the chances of recovering 8k from an online crypto scam like this are really low. They'll likely have moved the funds through multiple wallets and mixers. Still, reporting it to the Dutch police is the right thing to do. Keep records of everything.

Mason Morin · Winnipeg, Canadaanswered 33d ago
5

Oh OP, reading this makes my stomach churn. I fell for a similar crypto scam two years ago. Met someone on a dating app, convinced me to invest. Lost about $10k USD. The shame is often worse than the money, isn't it? You feel like you should have known better.

What helped me, eventually, was joining support groups. Hearing other people's stories and realizing how common this is. It didn't get my money back, but it helped with the shame. Reporting it to the police in my city was a dead end, but I reported to the FBI because it was cross-border. Worth a shot for you too, even from NL.

Olivia MacDonald · Winnipeg, Canadaanswered 33d ago
4

Heartbroken and ashamed? You shouldn't be. This scammer preyed on your trust. It's so common. I was tricked into investing on a fake forex platform by someone I met on Facebook almost a year ago. Lost a good chunk of my emergency fund. It took me months to even talk about it.

Reporting it is a good step. In South Africa, we have the South African Police Service (SAPS) for general fraud, and the Hawks might get involved if it's a bigger organised crime thing. But honestly, with it being crypto and NL-based, it's a long shot. Don't let this deter you from trusting people in general, but be super cautious online.

Chloe Pretorius · Johannesburg, South Africaanswered 33d ago
1

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. This is heartbreaking. It's incredibly easy to get caught up in these schemes, especially when they feel personal and you've invested time and emotion. The fake growth and withdrawal are classic tactics to build false confidence.

For reporting, definitely start with the Dutch police. The Fiinancial Intelligence Unit (FIU-Nederland) might also be interested, as they analyze suspicious financial transactions. Keep every single piece of evidence you have – screenshots, transaction IDs (if you have them), chat logs. You're doing the right thing by seeking help.

Michael Gonzalez · San Diego, USAanswered 33d ago
1

Oh wow, that sounds like a terrible experience. Losing that kind of money is devastating, and the betrayal from someone you thought was a friend is just adding insult to injury. Please don't feel stupid. These people are professionals at manipulation.

Reporting from the Netherlands: definitely the national police. Check out the website of the FIOD (Fiscal Information and Investigation Service) too, they handle financial and economic crime. Maybe they have specific channels for online investment scams. It's a shame they're not based in SA, we have some good resources here, but international cases are always tougher.

Lerato Smit · Pretoria, South Africaanswered 33d ago
1

CoinEgg Pro. Sounds made up. You can't really 'invest' in anything that promises stable, high crypto returns with someone you met on Signal. That's a massive red flag. Did you ever verify the platform on a trusted crypto news site or anything? Or check if it was regulated by any financial authority?

Singapore has the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) which is pretty good, but for an NL resident targeting a scam platform, your best bet is the Dutch police. But to be blunt, recovering 8k euros from a digital wallet, especially if it went through mixers or P2P, is borderline impossible. This is why due diligence matters.

Aaron Koh · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 33d ago
1

Ugh, this is such a classic setup. Signal, fake investment, blocked. I've seen friends hit by this. Especially the 'test withdrawal' thing. That's designed to make you feel safe before you double down.

From the Netherlands, you'll want to report immediately to the Politie. Also, look into the Netherlands Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM) perhaps, though they're more for consumer protection generally. But honestly, if the crypto wallets were used and it's gone international, chances of recovery are extremely slim. Don't blame yourself.

Saar Bakker · Groningen, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
5

I'm you. Or I was you. About a year ago. Met someone on a gaming forum, moved to Telegram. They pitched this 'automated trading bot'... sounded amazing. Put in my rent money. Gone. Haven't been able to pay rent for months, couch-surfing. They took 6k euros. My parents had to bail me out. I'm still trying to pay them back.

Reporting from NL? Yeah, I did. Filed a report online with the Politie. Got a case number, but I haven't heard anything. They said often these people are in crypto hubs like parts of Asia or Eastern Europe. My scammer used 'Binance', too. I reported it to Binance, they said they can't do anything unless police tell them to. It's a nightmare.

Noah van Dijk · Groningen, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
4

Reading this brought back some *very* bad memories. About 18 months ago I got scammed out of roughly the same amount, €8k, by a fake crypto platform called 'GlobalTradeFx' that I found through a dating app. They used WhatsApp and then a dodgy app. The whole process is designed to strip you of your savings. It's utterly devastating.

I did report it to my local police in Breda, and they took a report. They mentioned that they work with FIU-Nederland and sometimes Europol for cross-border cases, but honestly, recovery is highly unlikely. What I did find helpful, though, was reporting the scam platform to ChainAbuse.com. It doesn't get money back, but it flags them for others.

Liam van den Berg · Breda, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
1

Oh no, that's devastating. The Signal + fake crypto is such a prevalent scam right now. They groom you for weeks or months. They're so good at looking legit. I've seen cases linked to platforms that *sound* like real exchanges but are just front ends for theft.

In France, we have the AMF and the ACPR, but for actual fraud and recovery, it's often the police and perhaps the cybercrime units. If you can trace any blockchain addresses, that's your best hope for law enforcement, but often those wallets are anonymized quickly. So sorry this happened to you.

Camille Dubois · Lille, Franceanswered 33d ago
2

This is a textbook 'pig butchering' scam. The grooming phase on Signal, the fake platform with test withdrawals, the pressure for more investment, then the disappearance. It's a sophisticated operation designed to maximize losses. The name 'CoinEgg Pro' sounds completely made up; legitimate platforms usually have clear web presences and regulatory disclosures.

From a reporting perspective, as a victim in the Netherlands, the primary route is the Dutch National Police (Politie). They have specific units for cybercrime and financial fraud. You should also consider reporting to FIU-Nederland (Financial Intelligence Unit). While direct recovery is challenging with crypto, filing a police report is crucial for any potential future asset tracing efforts or if the scammers are apprehended in a larger bust. Keep absolute meticulous records of all communications and transactions.

Daniel Martinez · Philadelphia, USAanswered 33d ago
1

This sounds like a classic bait-and-switch crypto scheme. The friend aspect is just manipulation. They lure you in with fake promises and proof (screenshots), let you make a small withdrawal to build trust, then they drain your account. CoinEgg Pro? Probably registered somewhere with minimal oversight.

It’s tough from South Africa to get recourse for something happening in NL, but if you were banking through a SA bank for any part of this, report it to them immediately. For online fraud in SA, the SAPS is the main reporting body, though success rates vary wildly. For international crypto, it's a maze. ChainAbuse.com is a good place to report the scam itself, which helps others avoid it.

Ethan Coetzee · East London, South Africaanswered 33d ago
1

Oh no, that's awful. Losing savings is devastating, and the way it happened is just cruel. It's so easy to get drawn into these things when the person seems genuine and the platform looks real. The test withdrawal is such a clever, and evil, trick.

Don't beat yourself up. You can report this to the Dutch police, of course. Also, check out the website of the Dutch Securities Institute (Stichting) if the platform claimed any sort of official financial status at all. It may not lead to recovery, but it's important they know about these fake platforms.

Leon Hoffmann · Stuttgart, Germanyanswered 33d ago
1

This is incredibly common, unfortunately. The 'Signal friend' who turns out to be a scammer pushing a fake crypto platform. It's designed to look lucrative and safe. Did you do any checks on CoinEgg Pro with the AFM (Netherlands Authority for Financial Markets)? They keep a register of authorized companies. If it's not on there, it's a massive warning sign.

I wouldn't get your hopes up for recovery, but reporting it to the Politie is the correct step. They work with international bodies, but it's a long shot. Don't let this make you distrust everyone, just be smarter next time.

Anna Bakker · Nijmegen, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
1

My heart goes out to you. That feeling of betrayal and loss is immense. They build up that trust so carefully, don't they? And the fake growth... it's a fantasy they sell you before snatching your reality. 8k is a huge amount.

Reporting from Australia is one thing, but from NL, you're looking at the Dutch police (Politie) and potentially the FIOD for financial crimes. It's a tough situation. Look into services like Nethertrace.co, they deal with crypto scams from the Netherlands and might have advice.

Isla Wilson · Brisbane, Australiaanswered 33d ago
1

Oh OP, I'm so sorry. This sounds like a really painful experience. The way these scammers operate is so insidious, isolating you and then draining your finances. You did nothing wrong; you were targeted.

For reporting in the Netherlands, the police are def the first step. You might also want to look into the Authority for Financial Markets (AFM) online, they have warnings about fake investment firms. It's the same all over the world, really. Terrible stuff.

Connor Coetzee · East London, South Africaanswered 33d ago
7

Ah, CoinEgg Pro? Yeah, that's a classic scam operation. They pop up under different names all the time. Signal is a popular vector for these 'romance scams' that pivot to investment fraud. The screenshots they show you are faked, of course. The initial small withdrawals? That's to build trust. They lure you in with a seemingly legitimate process and then just disappear.

For reporting in the Netherlands, you'll want to go through the Dutch National Police (Politie). They coordinate with Europol for cross-border stuff. Also, consider filing a report with the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) if CoinEgg Pro claimed to be regulated. They might not recover your funds, but these reports build a case. There are also specialist services like Nethertrace that help with crypto recovery cases, but be very careful selecting one — many are scams themselves. Vet them thoroughly.

James Murphy · Galway, Irelandanswered 33d ago
5

Oh god, I'm so sorry. That 8k is gone, I know how bad that feels. I lost something similar last year to a 'forex trading' scam that started the same way, on Telegram though. The 'friendship' is fake, the platform is fake, everything is fake. They groom you. I felt so stupid afterwards, replaying every conversation. It took me months to even talk about it.

Reporting it is tough, especially from NL. Your best bet is to report it to the Dutch police, yeah. They have fraud departments. Check if the platform claimed to be registered anywhere, maybe register with the AFM. Sometimes, if it's linked to actual crypto exchanges, you might be able to get transaction data, but it's a long shot. Don't give up hope entirely, but manage your expectations. Focused on the reporting for now.

Daniel Moore · San Diego, USAanswered 33d ago
2

Watch out for CoinEgg. If it sounds too good to be true with crypto, it almost certainly is. These 'investment platforms' operated by people you 'meet' online are invariably scams. They create fake dashboards, fake transaction histories, and when you deposit anything significant, that's it. Poof. Blocked, gone. They will use social engineering to prey on people's trust and greed.

For the Netherlands, definitely report this to the Politie. Also look into the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM). They are the financial watchdog there. And for tracking crypto, especially if it moved onto a major exchange, there are services that can help trace those wallet addresses, but expect to pay and the success rate isn't 100%. They prey on people like us.

Oliver Johnson · Sydney, Australiaanswered 33d ago
1

This sounds very suspicious, to be honest. I've seen similar stories. How did you verify this 'CoinEgg Pro'? Did they provide any official registration numbers with the Dutch authorities? Like the AFM? Just because it looks shiny and 'grows' doesn't mean anything. Most likely, your 'friend' and the platform are in cahoots. No reputable investment platform operates solely through Signal and then goes dark. Be very careful about who you trust online, especially when money is involved.

Fatima Al Marri · Ras Al Khaimah, UAEanswered 33d ago
3

Oh no, that's awful! I'm really sorry to hear this happened to you. It's so easy to get caught up in things when someone seems genuine, and those screenshots can look so convincing. Don't beat yourself up about it, these scammers are very sophisticated.

Your main port of call in the Netherlands would be the police. You can file a report online. The financial regulator is the AFM, so definitely report it to them too. They might not be able to get your money back directly, but reporting helps them track these scams. Keep all the evidence you have - chats, transaction details, anything. It might help.

James Wood · Leeds, United Kingdomanswered 33d ago
1

That's a rough one. Signal and Telegram are rife with these types of scams now, moving from simple romance scams to fake investment opportunities. They create a whole fake ecosystem for you. The initial success and withdrawal are just to hook you in bigger. When you're ready to cash out the big amount, that's when they take it all and vanish.

For reporting in NL, the police are your first stop. Also, the Authority for Financial Markets (AFM) should be notified. Sometimes, if these things are linked to international exchanges, the AFP (Australian Federal Police, but they deal with international stuff) or similar bodies might get involved, but that's more for large-scale investigations. Good luck.

Joshua Teo · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 33d ago
2

I'm so sorry this happened. It's a horrible feeling to be deceived like that, especially when you thought you'd made a connection with someone. These crypto scams are so prevalent. They are designed to look legitimate and exploit trust. The quick growth and small withdrawal were absolutely designed to get you to invest more. It's a standard tactic.

Reporting it to the Dutch police is the right step. Also, check the AFM's website (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets). They have information on reporting financial misconduct and might have specific advice for crypto scams. Keep records of everything, especially the wallet addresses involved if you have them.

Mia Anderson · Canberra, Australiaanswered 33d ago
3

Ugh, CoinEgg Pro? Heard of them. Total scam. Similar thing happened to my cousin, lost about 5k CAD. Met someone on Instagram, moved to WhatsApp, then got pitched a fake 'crypto mining' scheme. They even had a slick website. She paid for 'equipment' and then the site went down. The person blocked her. It's such a violation. Right now, reporting to the local police is your must-do. In Canada, we report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. I'd look for the equivalent in NL.

Noah Ouellet · Winnipeg, Canadaanswered 33d ago
4

This pattern is distressingly common. The 'CoinEgg Pro' platform is almost certainly a front. The 'social friend' is the scammer or part of a team. These operations often use advanced techniques to mimic legitimate trading interfaces, complete with fabricated gains and even small, successful withdrawals to build false confidence. Reporting is crucial. In Germany, we have BaFin for financial services, and also the police for fraud. For cross-border crypto scams like this, reporting to national police who then liaison with Europol is the standard procedure. Keep meticulous records of all communications and transactions.

Lukas Schafer · Berlin, Germanyanswered 33d ago
2

Yeah, this 'CoinEgg Pro' reeks of a scam. They use social media and messaging apps like Signal to find victims, build trust, and then push fake investment platforms. The fake growth and withdrawal is pure manipulation to get you to deposit your savings. I heard about a similar case where someone lost 15 grand. They really need to be stopped.

For reporting in the Netherlands, your first stop is the police website. Also, check the AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets) if CoinEgg Pro pretended to be regulated. Don't expect to get the money back easily, but reporting is vital to help authorities track these criminal networks.

Emma Tremblay · Quebec City, Canadaanswered 33d ago
3

I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's incredibly easy to fall for these things when someone builds up trust over time. The screenshots and small withdrawals are classic manipulation tactics. They want you to feel confident before you make the big deposit. Please know you're not alone; many people have been victims of these sophisticated scams.

Reporting to the Dutch police is definitely the way to go. Also, the AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets) is the right place to report financial scams. They might not recover your funds, but their information is used to warn others and potentially prosecute. Keep all your chat logs and transaction details safe.

Lina Klein · Stuttgart, Germanyanswered 33d ago
2

This is a textbook crypto investment scam. They create a fake platform, often with a convincing-looking interface, and use fake 'friends' on apps like Signal to get you to invest. The initial growth and withdrawal are just to make you feel secure. Once you deposit a large sum, the platform disappears, and so does your 'friend'. I've seen this happen multiple times, often involving losses of thousands.

Reporting to the Netherlands police is essential. You should also consider reporting it to the AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets). If the scam involved international elements, reporting it might help create a case for organisations like Europol. Don't lose hope in reporting, even if recovery seems unlikely.

Emma Murphy · Galway, Irelandanswered 33d ago
3

Oh dear, that's heartbreaking. I'm so sorry. It's horrible when trust is broken like that. My neighbour got scammed similarly on Facebook Messenger, lost about 2,000 Euro. Met a 'woman' who promised to share profits from mining. The platform looked real enough. The police report didn't get the money back but at least they have it on record.

For reporting from NL, definitely go to the Politie. The AFM is also key for financial scams. Don't feel ashamed, these people are professionals in manipulation. Stay strong.

Ethan Mokoena · Bloemfontein, South Africaanswered 33d ago
2

This is a very common scam. The 'friend' you met on Signal, the 'CoinEgg Pro' platform – it’s all fake. They use fake dashboards and screenshots to show your 'investments' growing. The small withdrawal is a tactic to build your confidence. Once you invest a significant amount, they disappear. They are professional con artists.

In the Netherlands, you must report this to the Politie (police). Also, file an official complaint with the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM). They regulate financial services and may have specific advice for crypto scams. Keep every piece of evidence you have. It's really tough, but reporting is the first step.

Julia Smit · Almere, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
5

Okay, so 'CoinEgg Pro' is a known scam platform. They use social engineering, often starting on apps like Signal or Telegram, posing as potential romantic partners or friends. They build trust over time, show fake investment gains, and then encourage larger deposits. When you try to withdraw a significant amount or contact them after the scam, they block you and the site goes offline.

For reporting in the Netherlands, the national police (Politie) are your primary contact. Also, the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) is the regulatory body. Reporting to them is important, even if recovery is unlikely. Consider looking into services that specialize in tracing stolen crypto, but research *very* carefully, as many recovery services are scams themselves.

Paul Hoffmann · Berlin, Germanyanswered 33d ago
2

I understand how you feel. It's devastating to lose savings like that, and the betrayal of trust on top is just awful. These 'social trading' scams are becoming incredibly common. The key is that the platform is fake, and often the persona you interacted with is too. They are experts at creating convincing illusions.

Your best course of action in the Netherlands is to report the incident to the national police. The AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets) is also the correct body to report financial irregularities to. While direct recovery of funds is often difficult with crypto, these reports are crucial for law enforcement to track and potentially dismantle these scam operations.

Lea Leroy · Bordeaux, Franceanswered 33d ago
3

This is a very typical 'pig butchering' scam, unfortunately. They 'fatten you up' with fake gains and successful small withdrawals before the big slaughter. CoinEgg Pro is a red flag, as is meeting someone on Signal who immediately pitches an investment.

In your situation, reporting to the Politie is essential. Also, the AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets) should be notified. They work with Europol on these cross-border cases. While recovering your 8k is going to be extremely difficult, reporting helps build intelligence against these criminal groups. Good luck, and I'm really sorry you went through this.

Wei Teo · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 33d ago
2

So sorry to hear this. Losing money is tough, but losing it to someone you thought was a friend, and from a platform that looked legit? That's a special kind of pain. These fake crypto platforms are designed to look exactly like real ones. The immediate growth and small withdrawal are classic lures.

Reporting it to the Dutch police is the first step. Also, definitely report it to the AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets). They are the financial regulators and take such reports seriously. Keep all your evidence digitally. It’s a tough road, but reporting is non-negotiable.

Hassan Al Hashemi · Abu Dhabi, UAEanswered 33d ago
2

That sounds awful. It's a standard playbook: build rapport, introduce a seemingly great investment (often crypto or forex), show fake profits, allow a small withdrawal, then take your savings and run. CoinEgg Pro is likely entirely fabricated. They use fake domains and servers scattered globally.

Your best bet is to report it to the Dutch police. You should also report it to the AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets). They might not be able to recover your money but these reports are vital for tracking down the scammers. Keep copies of everything—chats, transaction IDs, wallet addresses etc.

Brittany Lee · San Antonio, USAanswered 33d ago
2

Ugh, I know this story too well. My uncle invested in something similar, a fake 'AI trading bot' pitched on Facebook, lost like 6k. It looked so real, he even showed me the dashboard once. The person he was talking to vanished. They use Signal for a reason - it's encrypted and harder to trace.

For reporting from NL, you absolutely go to the Politie. Also, check the AFM (Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets). They are the proper channels. I'm not sure about recovery chances but reporting is important. Keep all the screenshots and messages.

Hao Ng · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 33d ago
1

Oh god, I'm so sorry this happened to you. It sounds like a classic romance scam mixed with a crypto investment scam. They build trust, show fake growth, then disappear with your money. CoinEgg Pro isn't a real exchange, just a fake front. They probably used a script to make the fake platform look real. There's very little hope of getting the money back, Nethertrace might be able to help trace the crypto if any of it was moved, but honestly, these scams are designed to be untraceable.

Mia Martin · Adelaide, Australiaanswered 33d ago
2

Sending you a big hug. I fell for something similar, not crypto but forex. Met a guy online, seemed perfect, convinced me to invest. Lost about 5k CAD. It felt like my fault for months, like I was so dumb. The cops here in NL basically said 'learn from it'. Check out the politie.nl website though, they have a section for reporting scams and sometimes they can track patterns, even if they don't get your money back. It’s something.

Milan Bakker · The Hague, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
1

Signal, huh? And 'CoinEgg Pro'? Sounds like a textbook setup. Look, I'm not trying to rub it in, but if someone you just met online is pushing you hard to invest in some magical growing platform, especially crypto, alarm bells should be ringing like crazy. And screenshots? Everyone can fake screenshots. Did you do ANY independent research on CoinEgg Pro before sending your savings in?

Adam Thomas · Lille, Franceanswered 33d ago
1

I lost $10kSGD to a similar scam last year after meeting someone on Telegram. They set up a fake trading account for me and it looked so real. When I wanted to withdraw, poof. Gone. I reported it to the local police and the MAS, but they said crypto scams originating overseas are very hard to prosecute and recover funds from. The Singapore Police Force has a scam prevention page, though, it's worth a look.

Jun Ong · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 33d ago
1

This is a very common pattern, unfortunately. The 'mutual online group' followed by Signal is a red flag. The fake platform creating fake gains and then blocking you is the second. CoinEgg is a known scam operation. You can report this to the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM) in the Netherlands, though their capacity to retrieve funds is limited. They can, however, add CoinEgg to their warning list. Also, check out ChainAbuse.com for reporting crypto scams.

Hannah Lee · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 33d ago
1

I know that feeling of shame, believe me. I lost 3k euros on a fake trading app after talking to someone on WhatsApp for weeks. They seemed so sincere. Then one day, my account was just… gone. My wife told me to report it to the police, but I felt too embarrassed. If you do decide to report it, the Dutch police have an online portal.

Lucas Bos · Nijmegen, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
1

Oh no, that's absolutely devastating. Please don't feel stupid, these scammers are incredibly manipulative and prey on people's desire for a better future. It's not your fault. You did the right thing by leaving the fake platform once you suspected something was wrong. Even though reporting it might not get your money back directly, it helps authorities track these operations.

Olivia Pillay · Pretoria, South Africaanswered 33d ago
1

I saw something very similar happen to my cousin. She was chatting with someone on Facebook, who then moved to WhatsApp. They convinced her to invest in a fake mining operation. She lost over 15k AUD. She reported it to Action Fraud UK (even though she’s in Singapore, they sometimes cross-reference) and also to the MAS. Nothing came of it, but she felt better having done *something*.

Yi Yeo · Singapore, Singaporeanswered 33d ago
1

This 'CoinEgg Pro' sounds exactly like the 'GlobalXchange' scam I almost fell for. Kept pushing for more investment, showed fake profits. Luckily, my gut feeling kicked in before I sent them my rent money. I read reviews on Reddit and saw tons of people complaining. Always, ALWAYS check if the platform is regulated by a reputable authority like BaFin (Germany) or AMF France *before* investing, not after. Major red flag if they aren't.

Sem de Boer · Rotterdam, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
1

Don't invest in anything you can't see traded on a real, major exchange like Binance or Coinbase. If they tell you to use a special platform, it's a scam. If they use Signal or WhatsApp, big red flag. If they promise guaranteed returns, BIGGEST red flag. This happened to my uncle in Johannesburg; he lost his pension money. He reported it to the BBB, but they couldn't do much because it was overseas crypto.

Lily Kruger · Bloemfontein, South Africaanswered 33d ago
1

I hear you. I lost £6k to a forex scam originating from someone I met on an online chess forum. Talked for months, seemed genuine as. Then the investment pitch. Lost it all and they went silent. The UK police advised me to report it to Action Fraud, which I did. They logged it but said recovery is rare for these crypto/forex scams. It’s brutal. The only 'hope' is if they catch the scammers down the line.

James Evans · Birmingham, United Kingdomanswered 33d ago
1

This is heartbreaking and sadly very common. I lost R30,000 to a Bitcoin scam where the person pretended to be a financial advisor I met on LinkedIn. They directed me to a fake platform. I reported it to the South African Police Service, and they took a statement, but without much hope of recovery. They did mention something about the FIC (Financial Intelligence Centre) trying to track illicit crypto flows.

Lerato Mokoena · East London, South Africaanswered 33d ago
1

So sorry this happened. These people are absolute scum. I was scammed out of €3k by someone I met on a dating app. They convinced me to invest in 'crypto bonds'. It was a fake website. I reported it to the Garda Síochána (Irish police) and the Central Bank of Ireland. They told me that for overseas crypto scams, the best bet is often reporting to international bodies if you can find them, or specialized crypto tracking sites. Not much else.

Niamh Burke · Cork, Irelandanswered 33d ago
1

The Netherlands has a division within their central bank responsible for financial supervision. You might want to check their website. However, for scams like this, especially with crypto, the money is likely already gone and laundered. These Signal group setups are getting more sophisticated. Did they ask you to transfer crypto directly to them, or to a wallet address on their fake platform?

Omar Al Hashemi · Al Ain, UAEanswered 33d ago
1

This is an 'advance fee' scam combined with a romance/friendship scam. They got you hooked, made you trust them, showed you fake results to get your savings. The 'CoinEgg Pro' is completely fake. The Netherlands Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-Nederland) might be worth reporting to, but recovery is extremely unlikely. Sadly, these types of scams are prevalent worldwide. Good luck though.

Noah de Boer · Groningen, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
1

Ugh, the shame is the worst part, isn't it? I lost 5k AUD after meeting someone online who convinced me to buy a very specific type of crypto that was 'about to explode'. It was all BS, of course. My friend suggested reporting it to ChainAbuse, which I did. They have a big database of scam projects. Might not get money back, but at least it warns others.

Rachel Martinez · Austin, USAanswered 33d ago
1

This is awful. It sounds exactly like the kind of setup that targets people. They start friendly, build rapport, then introduce the 'opportunity.' The key thing here is the fake platform CoinEgg Pro. If you can't find any official regulatory body that oversees it (like the SEC in the US or MAS in Singapore), it's a massive red flag. Reporting to Nethertrace might at least get it logged.

Jack Harris · Perth, Australiaanswered 33d ago
1

My advice? Never, ever invest money based on a recommendation from someone you met online, especially through messaging apps like Signal. Stick to established, regulated platforms verified by your country's financial authority. For the Netherlands, that's the AFM. Report CoinEgg to them and the police, but don't expect a recovery. It's a harsh lesson, but essential.

Liam van Dijk · Tilburg, Netherlandsanswered 33d ago
1

Man, reading this brought back memories. I lost close to €5k on a fake NFT platform after meeting someone on Twitter. Same thing: talk for ages, seemed legit, pushed the investment, then blocked. I reported it to the Dutch police and the AFM, but honestly, they said recovery is almost impossible unless the scammers are caught in the act. The perpetrators are usually overseas.

Ciara Quinn · Limerick, Irelandanswered 33d ago
1

I went through something almost identical myself. Met a woman on a dating app, moved to WhatsApp, she 'introduced' me to a platform called 'WealthyBit'. Lost about $7k USD. I felt like such an idiot. My brother, who knows crypto, told me to check with the BBB (Better Business Bureau) even though it was overseas, just to see if the company had any history. It didn't, but he also suggested reporting to ChainAbuse. It’s a terrible feeling, but you're not alone.

Lucas Nguyen · Melbourne, Australiaanswered 33d ago

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