#proof-of-ownership-fee

Crypto Recovery Advocates asking for a 'proof of ownership' fee — another scam?

Hi everyone, I'm honestly feeling so lost and embarrassed. About six months ago, I fell for a crypto investment scam, lost nearly £8,000. It was devastating, my life savings almost. I reported it to Action Fraud and honestly, didn't expect much. Then, a few weeks ago, I got an email out of the blue from a company called 'Crypto Recovery Advocates'. They said they'd found my case via a 'public database' – which sounded a bit weird – and that they could help get my money back. They've walked me through this whole process, showing me screenshots of what looks like my transactions on a blockchain explorer, and honestly, it gave me a glimmer of hope. But now, they're asking for a 'proof of ownership' fee of £750 to 'unlock' my funds. They say it's to verify I'm the real owner before they can initiate the transfer back. It's a non-refundable upfront fee. My gut is screaming scam, but my heart really wants to believe it. Is this a common tactic for recovery scams? Has anyone else heard of this 'proof of ownership' fee?