Known for its privacy features, Telegram has become popular in the cryptocurrency industry. However, while it offers much-needed privacy to crypto followers, it also presents an opportunity for fraudsters to conduct scams.
This article will introduce two common Telegram impersonation scams and share tips to avoid similar fraud.
Types of Telegram Scams
Impersonating CoinEx Officials or Communities
1. Impersonating CoinEx Official Support via Private Messages
Scammers will proactively message users, impersonating official CoinEx personnel, claiming that services such as “withdrawal requires a fee,” “account has been frozen / risk control review,” and “handling abnormal login” are necessary.
They assert that they can provide “quick resolution” to entice users into transferring funds or disclosing sensitive information, or to lead them to click phishing links, thereby stealing assets.
2. Fake CoinEx Official Communities
Scammers create Telegram groups or channels with names and avatars that closely resemble CoinEx’s official ones. They post fake announcements, deposit rebates, or promotional activities in these groups, luring users into transferring funds to non-official addresses.
⚠️ How to Identify Scams
1. Official staff will not proactively message users or request sensitive information
CoinEx official staff will not initiate private messages claiming they can help resolve issues, nor will they request passwords, SMS codes, or Google Authenticator codes under any circumstances.
2. Official staff will not request transfers or fees via private messages
CoinEx official staff will not ask users to make any form of transfer through Telegram or private messages, including but not limited to withdrawal fees, margin deposits, or risk control review fees.
3. Official staff will not provide personal receiving addresses
CoinEx will not send personal wallet addresses or bank account details via private messages and ask users to transfer funds to a “designated address.” All deposit and withdrawal operations should only be completed on the official CoinEx platform.
How to Avoid Telegram Scams
Although scammers constantly change their tactics, understanding common schemes and basic security practices can help you avoid most Telegram scams.
1. Adjust Privacy and Security Settings
- Enable two-factor authentication and a passcode lock
- Change call settings to restrict calls from strangers
- Adjust group permissions to prevent strangers from adding you to unknown groups
- Set phone number visibility to “Nobody”
- Clear payment and receiving information
2. Verify Authenticity Through Official Verification Channel
If you encounter suspicious CoinEx communities or receive private messages from strangers, always verify their identity through CoinEx Official Verification Channel page. Do not trust “official links” provided by others.
3. Use the Official Telegram Group
4. Carefully Check Usernames
Scammers often replace individual letters or modify font styles to create highly similar usernames, impersonating official customer support or administrators of well-known brands or popular groups.
Before interacting with anyone, always verify the username and confirm the contact’s true identity to avoid being scammed.
5. Do Not Share Account Login Information with Anyone
Never share Telegram verification codes with anyone. If you receive suspicious messages from strangers or even known contacts, do not respond casually—especially if you are asked to provide verification codes. Stay highly alert.