Washington DC seizes $25 million in crypto fraud
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U.S. authorities in Washington, DC have seized more than $25 million in cryptocurrency linked to transnational investment scams targeting residents of the United States and Canada. On July 21, 2026, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia filed five civil forfeiture complaints in federal court to confiscate the assets, following investigations led with the U.S. Secret Service Washington Field Office. The seizures are part of the Scam Center Strike Force, launched in 2025 by D.C. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, which has recovered over $800 million to date. The cases involve money laundering networks using fake crypto platforms, romance scams, and complex wallet structures.
More context
Timeline
- 2025 Scam Center Strike Force initiative launched
- 2025 Strike Force begins multi-agency crypto investigations
- Earlier this year Canadian police share wallet data
- Earlier this year suspected victim transactions identified worldwide
- July 21, 2026 Five civil forfeiture complaints filed
- July 21, 2026 Authorities detail five major investigations
- July 21, 2026 Over $25 million cryptocurrency assets seized
- Today Strike Force total recoveries exceed $800 million
Why it matters
This is about your MONEY and SAFETY. Scammers use fake crypto platforms and romance tricks to steal millions. They're targeting U.S. and Canadian residents. Always double-check before investing in crypto. Be wary of strangers promising love and wealth.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
