Pig Butchering

Definition ∞ Pig butchering is a sophisticated type of investment fraud where scammers cultivate long-term relationships with victims before coercing them into fake cryptocurrency investments. This scam typically begins with building trust, often through dating apps or social media, followed by gradually introducing the idea of lucrative digital asset opportunities. Victims are then led to deposit increasing amounts of capital into fraudulent platforms that appear legitimate. Ultimately, all deposited funds are stolen, leaving victims with significant financial losses.
Context ∞ Pig butchering scams represent a severe and growing threat in the digital asset world, drawing considerable attention from law enforcement agencies globally. The psychological manipulation involved makes these frauds particularly devastating for victims. News reports frequently detail the methods of these scammers and efforts by authorities to track down and prosecute the perpetrators.